PS 3531 
.E47 P7 
1914 
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THE PRINCE CHAP 



B Comei)is in ^Tbree Bets 



BY -fJe.^^ 

EDWARD PEPLE 



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Copyright, 1904, by Edward Peplb 



OonraiQiiT, 1W14. w Edwa^x; PKPii 



CAUTION.— This play is fully protected under the copyright lawa 
cf the United States, is subject to royalty, and any one present- 
ing the play without the consent of the author or his agents, 
will be liable to penalty under the law. All applications lor 
amateur performances in America and Canada must be made to 
SAMUEL FRENCH. 28-30 West 38th Street, New York City. 



New York 
SAMUEL FRENCH 

PUBLISHER 

28-30 WEST 38th Street 



London 

SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd., 

26 Southampton Street 

STRAND 






THE PRINCE CHAP 



CAST. 

William Peyton : An American sculptor. In Act 
First, a man of twenty-three years of age; 
slight, dark, with an expression of tenderness 
combined with the merriment of youth. 

Jack Rodney: The Earl of Huntington; an ama- 
teur painter. A blond Englishman, zvith an 
open, honest and kindly face. Faultless dress 
and easy bearing. In Act Second, aged twenty 
years. 

Marcus Run ion : An English serving man, of 
stolid countenance, side whiskers and shaven 
chin and lip. 

Ballington : "] 

Yadder: >■ Artists in the studio building. 

Fritz : J 

Truckman : Conventional. 

Claudia: {Part to be taken by three actresses. In 
Act First, a child of six. In Act Second, a 
child of eight years; and in Act Third, a slen- 
der, thoughtful girl of eighteen. 

Mrs. Arrington: Claudia's Mother. A former 
model; a woman of culture and refinement, 
but thin, pale and poorly clad. 

Phoebe Puckers: A maid of all work in the 
studio building. In Act First, a ragged, un- 
kempt " Slavey " of the London lower class; 
freckled, ugly and careless. 

Alice Travers : An American girl of tiventy years; 
handsome, stylish, the fiancee of William Pey- 
ton. 

2 " «^.v/^ 

©cm .^ 



NOV "9 



THE PRINCE CHAP 



ACT I. 



Scene I : — Time of action, an evening of the pres- 
ent day. 

Location, apartment in the studio of Mr. Wil- 
liam Peyton, a youthful sculptor, in London. 
Stage equipment as follows: 
A large, hare room with modest furnishings, 
draperies, plaster casts, a sketching easel, busts 
of, clay, etc. Working table at centre, upon 
which is an unfinished figure covered by a wet 
cloth. A few chairs, a large lounge at left 
front, placed diagonally before fire-place. 
Small side table at right, beyond which is a 
box. Upon the box is a small oil stove, a few 
pans, plates, etc. Large window at left rear, 
above which is a skylight zvith draw curtains. 
Adjoining room with closed door at rear cen- 
tre. Entrances at right and left rear. A fezv 
candles are lit, and a fire is burning in grate 
at left. 

Discovered: — Runion, an English serving man, 
entering from c. He crosses to l., lays a dress- 
ing gozvn on the sofa and places a pair of 
slippers before the fire; stirs the fire; a de- 
canter and several glasses on the centre table 
at rise. Runion scrapes the dottle from a 
pipe and replaces it. A knock is heard at the 
door R. 

3 



4 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

RuNiON. Come. {He opens the door to admit a 
Truckman, who staggers in with a heavy square 
box on his shoulders, carrying a large receipt hook 
between his teeth. The Man makes an inarticulate 
sound in the form of a question. Regarding him 
with slow disdain) 'Ope I may die if 'e don't think 
'd's talkin'! {Jerking the receipt hook from the 
Truckman's mouth) Now, then, my man! Wat 
is it? 

Truckman. {Sullenly) This 'ere's a box o' 
clay from Melville, Varden Company. William 
Peyton, two and six to pay. 

Runign. {With contempt) Two an* six for a 
box of dirt ! It's 'ighway robbery. / wouldn't give 
you tup'ence ha' penny for all the busts of clay an' 
graving himmages of dirt an' stone between 'ere and 
Yorkshire. 

Truckman. Look 'ere! This bloomin' box is 
*eavy ! 

Runion. Then w'y don't you put it down? 
Truckman. {Grinning) I'm waitin' for the 
two an' six. 

Runion. {Crossing to the mantel) Now, w'at 
a graspin', mistrustful nature some people 'as. 
As if a sculptor gentleman didn't always pay 
for everythink! {Returning with money, which 
he takes from the mantel) Now, then, shall 
I put it in your mouth, my man? That's where 
you seem to carry things. {The Man grunts and 
begins putting down the box r. of the table c) 
Easy now! Easy! {The box drops heavily. 
Small cast falls) Is that w'at you calls puttin' a 
thing down easy — liable to smash and mash Mr. 
Peyton's plarster figgers and expensive busts of 
clay ? 

Truckman. Beg pardon, but my 'ands is cold 
— Lord they's froze. 

Runion. An' if Mr. Peyton was 'ere, 'e'd thaw 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 5 

you out, an* no mistake. 'Ere's your money. Any- 
think to sign? 

Truckman. (Handing receipt hook) Nothink 
but the receipt. 

RuNioN. {Signing the hook and returning it) 
There you are. Good-night, my man. (Starts to 
mantel l. As the Truckman sees decanter on 
table c, he lingers) Well ? 

Truckman. Anythink for my trouble? 

RuNioN. 'Ardly, w'en you comes in like a elefint 
from the 'ippodrome. Nex' time, — perhaps. 

Truckman. That 'ere's a 'eavy box, ain't it? 
(RuNiON nods) An' it's a cold night, ain't it? 
(Nod) An' three flights o' bally stairs an' me 
abuttin' of me 'ead on every landin', ain't it? 
(Nod) An' me workin' overtime, an' a wife and 
four children ... an' that's sperrits on that table 
over there, ain't it? (Nod) Well? (Starts for 
the liquor on tahle c.) 

RuNioN. (Bus., intercepts him; crossing to the 
table) Touch not, taste not, 'andle not, is a good 
motter, my man; but if you wants to gobble fiery 
liquids in this worl', and waller in brimstone in the 
nex', w'y, it's no affair of Runion's! (l. of table, 
takes up decanter and glass) 

Truckman. (With a grin) I'll take the 
chances an' — (Runion pours very little in glass) 
— an' 'arf a glass. (Runion gives him a look) 
Your 'ealth, sir. (Drinks) Thank you, sir, good- 
night. (Crossing to R.) Brimstone wouldn't be 
'arf bad in weather like this 'ere. Thank'e, sir, 
good-night. (Exit at the door r.) 

Runion. (Wiping the glass carefully, then 
pouring out another portion) 'Is 'abits will be a 
judgment on 'irn jus' as sure as sin is sin. (He 
takes a sip) ^Strange ways some people has; 
strange ways J) . . an' Mr. Peyton acatchin' of 'em 
every day. (Shaking his head sadly) 'E's amakin' 
of graving himmages with 'is 'ands, an' pays good 



6 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

money for a box o' dirt to make 'em with. (Tap- 
ping the box) Now, this 'ere is a box of dirt. . . . 
'E calls it clay .... an' it cost 'im two an' six. At 
'ome 'e could have a ton of it for the arskin'. 'E 

means well, Mr. Peyton does (Sighing) 

but them artist gentlemen is awful simple-minded 
creeters — pitiful! — pitiful! (Lifting his glass) 
Well, 'ere's 'opin' 'e'll give up messin' about with 
mud .... an' marry some'ne as will take care of 
'im. (He tuts his head back and drinks, but nearly 
chokes himself as the door at the right flies open 
suddenly and violently) 

(Enter Phoebe Puckers, a small, ragged, unkempt 
servant girl, with side plats looped and tied with 
white string; her skirt is dingy and short, dis- 
closing loose, striped stockings and run-down 
shoes. She has a coal-scuttle in one hand, a 
brick tied to a string in the other. She drops 
the scuttle with a bang, darts across the room, 
jumps over the sofa and crouches before the 
fire.) 

Puckers. (At fire-place; shivering and pulling 
the hearth rug around her shoulders) OO — oo — 
oof But it's cold down the cellar! The Hartic re- 
gions is just stoves beside that cellar! 

RuNioN. (Sternly) Puck-^r.y.^ 

Puckers. An' it's a mercy of 'Eaven w'en the 
hartists an' sculptures 'oilers for a pail of coals, an' 
lets me warrri the iciclesses off'n my nose an' toes. 

RuNioN. (Down R. c, sternly) Puckers! I 
am speakin'! .Wat d'ye mean by abustin' in 'ere 
like — like a railroad 'orror — afrightenin' a gentle- 
man out of 'is seven, wits? 

Puckers. Come to bring the coals. Ho, Lud, 
can't you see the pail? 

RuNioN. I didn't call for no coals! 

Puckers. Didn't you, now? Thought I 'card 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 7 

you call me — twiced. Any'ow, if you knowed 'ow 
froze I was, you wouldn't a 'ad the' 'eart not to. 

RuNioN. Well, I didn't! 

Puckers. Then it must a bin the woices of the 
angels ..... an' I thought 'twas you. {She 
hooks her string on a nail in the mantel and tzvirls 
the brick in front of the fire) 

RuNioN. {Crosses to l. of the table) You're a 
flatterin' tongued little 'uzzy, Puckers. Wat are 
you adoin' with that brick? 

Puckers. Gettin' of it 'ot. 

RuNioN. Umph! Wat for? 

Puckers. ,I takes it dov/n the cellar an' sets on 
it. {Rises zvith back to grate) Nex' to the 'Oly 
Gospil, Mr. Runion, a 'ot brick in a cold cellar is 
the most comfortin' thing in life. It's 'eavenly! 

Runion. {Sits l. at table c.) 'Uman ideas of 
'eavenly comforts differs, Puckers; an' mine don't 
nni to 'ot bricks. 

Puckers. It would, if you lived with me, down 
at the butt end of a zero. Heverlastin' punishments 
'as no fears for Phoebe. Let 'em turn on their 
wolcanoes an' their flamin' brimstones, an' I'll smile 
as sweet, an' say : " Thank you, Mr. Devil. Thank 
you kindly, sir." 

Runion. Tuckers. I'm 'orrified. 

Puckers. .^ ' you'll be there to 'ear me say it, 
Mr. Runion. {Shaking her head) 

Runion. {Sharply) Look a 'ere, I've 'arf a 
mind to send you back down stairs; you an' your 
'ot brick with you. An' I will, too, for a cracked 
farthin'. 

Puckers. A farthin', is it! {Sets^on floor, end 
of sofa. She laughs) The coin of hartists an' 
sculptures. {Sighing reflectively) Ah, Mr. Run- 
ion, a hartist's life is mostly made hup of rosy 
'opes and no wages. 

Runion. {Solemnly) That's the truest thing 
you ever pronounced. 



8 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Puckers. Mr. Peyton says as 'ow the ravens 
feeds 'em ; but I ain't never seen no ravens 'round 
this 'ere stoodio buildin'. I uster think the grocer 
man and the butcher man was ravens; but they 
ain't. They's wulchers! 

RuNioN. (Busy around l. of table, nodding) 
Right, Puckers ! But looka 'ere, now. . . . Wat 
do you know about artists an' the ways concernin' 
of 'em? 

Puckers. (Laughing, crosses to scuttle of coals 
R.) Me? Ho, Lud! Ain't I carried 'em coals for 
two blessed years? (Picks up pail) Ain't there 
twenty-nine of 'em in this 'ere very buildin', an' 
one w'at pisened hisself last week 'cause he couldn't 
put up with hisself no longer? Ain't I on friendly 
terms with all of 'em, asweepin' up their dirt an* 
gettin' a tuppence here an' a thank you there, an* 
all the time alearnin' everythink about their noble 
callin'! (Hurriedly) That is, w*en they ain't 
drunk. (Drops pail) Wen they does that, I re- 
tires to the Hartic cellar . . . and sits alone with 
me own pure thoughts. (Sits on box of clay) 
Heh ! W'at Phoebe Puckers don't know about hart 
and hartists is a pinch in a mug o' ale. Say ! Vm 
studyin' to be a sculpture's model. 

RuNioN. (Laughing derisively — remains L. of 
table) You! Lor' love ye, Puckers, they ain't 
amakin' of gravin' himmages for Comic papers. 
You're a nice lookin' thing to be a artist's model, 
now, ain't you! Oh, Lor'! Oh, Lor'! (He 
laughs) 

Puckers. (Rises from box) Ho, you can 
laugh if you wants to, but you can't discourage 
Phoebe. An' posin' ain't so 'ard w'en you knows 
'ow. Look at this? (Standing up on the box of 
clay) I 'olds me two 'ands so — modest like. . . . 
The Wenus de Medicine. (On floor) Then I sets 
down so, an' crosses me legs an' takes down me 
golden 'air an* 'angs sea weeds in it, an' plays on a 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 9 

'arp. That's — er — w'at's — er name — Ho, yes, a 
Nymp! A she-thing w'at sings to a gent an' gets 
'im down in the water an' drowns 'im dead. 

RuNioN. Um — yes. I 'ear tell of 'er. 

Puckers. (Standing again on the box) Then 
you cuts hoff me arms an' strips me to the waist, 
an' I'm the Wenus de Mile-O. 

Run ION. Puckers ! 

Puckers. Then I peels hoff the rest of me 
clothes, looks down, shy, an' sticks out me toes. 
. . . Me loidy at 'er barth ! 

RuNioN. Phoebe Puckers, I'm ashamed of yoai. 

Puckers. Ho, that don't make no difference. 
(Jumps down) Don't nothin' make no differ'nce 
w'en you'se got a hartist's temper'ment. 

RuNioN. W'at ! 

Puckers. (Sits on box again) Mr. Ballington 
— the gent w'at lives hup stairs — 'e says as 'ow 
I've got it. Phoebe, 'e says " you can live on noth- 
ing and don't care three 'oops in 'ell." (Runion 
drops a tin cup, astonished) An' that, 'e says, is 
the key-note, Phoebe, of professional success. (Bus. 
off stage of tramping feet coming up stairs. Jump- 
ing up from the box) Ho, Lud! Mr. Peyton is a- 
comin' ! (She darts to the fire-place, snatches at 
the brick, picks up her scuttle. Enter Wm. Peyton, 
He has on a great coat and muffler. Puckers up 
stage R.) 

Peyton. B-r-r-r! but it's cold outside. (Rub- 
bing his hands and crossing to the fire) This Lon- 
don weather seems to go right down to a fellow's 
marrow. 

(As Runion advances with the decanter.) 

Runion. Little whiskey, sir? 

Peyton. No, thank you. Make me a large cup 
of coffee, will you — strong and hot. Where are 
my — (Picking up slippers. Runion goes to oil 



10 THE PRINCE CHAR 

t 

stove R. and arranges for coffee, lights gas, etc.) 
Ah, here we are. (Seats himself on the lounge l. 
fire-place and begins taking off his shoes) By 
Jove, I do believe my toes are frozen solid. 

Puckers. {Advances to Vi. c.) Ho, Lud! Don't 
I know how they feels? {Scuttle on arm, brick in 
scuttle) 

Peyton. {Looking up) Hullo, Puckers! What 
are you doing up here ? 

Puckers. Jus' meltin' of mesself hout, sir. You 
said 'as 'ow I could come hup w'en I ^as cold, sir. 

Peyton. That's right. Whenever the therm.ome- 
ter goes down YOU come up. It is a cold night, 
isn't it? 

Puckers. Yes, sir. {Advancing and holding out 
the brick) You can 'ave me brick if yer wants to. 
It'll toast you hup in no time if you sets on it. 

Peyton. {Laughing) Thank you, no; but I do 
admire your — um — perspicacity and — er — concen- 
tration of purpose. 

Puckers. {Blankly) 'Ow's that, sir? 

Peyton. I say you seem to go right at the seat 
of the trouble, so to speak. (Puckers moves r. ) 
By the way, where do you sleep at night? 

Puckers. {Swinging scuttle) Cellar, sir. 
Cubby hole under the stairs. 

Peyton. {Warming a slipper) Hum! Not 
very luxurious quarters, I imagine. By yourself? 

Puckers. Me an' the rats, sir. {As Peyton 
starts) But, ho, Lud! I don't mind 'em! They 
ain't never bit me but wunst. {Moves to c, pin 
bus.) 

Peyton. {Aside) The poor little lonely devil! 
{Turning) What do you cover up with? 

Puckers. A old petti-coat, sir, an' a hartist's 
smokin' jacket, but I wish the hartist 'ad been a big- 
ger man, sir. (Runion goes up stage c.) 

Peyton. {Rising, crosses to c.) Look here, 
this won't do. Never in the world! {Pausing in 



THE PRINCE CHAP. ii 

his walk. Takes blanket from couch up l.) Here, 
you take this blanket down to your cubby hole to- 
night — (Returns c.) roll up in it — and then per- 
haps — (Puts it on her shoulders. Taps brick she 
holds in left hand) 

RuNioN. (Indignantly, crosses to l. and down) 
Beg pardon, sir, but you'll need that blanket your- 
self on a night like this, an' 

Peyton. That's all right. I have my over- 
coat. (Placing the blanket over Phoebe's shoul- 
der) There; run along now. . . . Til speak to the 
care-taker in the morning, and see if we can find 
you a sleeping place with more heat and fewer rats. 
Good-night. 

Puckers. (In bewildered unbelief) Is you 
alendin' of this 'ere helligant blanket to — to me? 

Peyton. (Smiling) Why not? 

Puckers. (Holding the door open with her foot, 
and sobbing) Ho, Mr. Peyton, sir — it — it makes 
a body cry . . . w'en folks is good to me . . . 
like you is. (Exit sobbing) 

(Peyton crosses to fire, facing it, hands out- 
stretched. ) 

RuNioN. Will you 'ave your dressin' gown, sir? 
(Comes down with gown) 

Peyton. No, thank you. I shall do some work 
this evening! (Runion puts gown up stage, then 
crosses to R. stove) When you've put the coffee 
on, get my blouse, will you? (After pause) 

RuNioN. Yes, sir. 

Peyton. Jove, it's fine to have a fire like this, 
isn't it? It looks so good I could almost bathe in 
it. 

RuNioN. (Fussing with oil stove R. Solemnly) 
You'd find it rather 'ot, sir. 

Peyton. (Laughing) Yes, I dare say. (Seri- 
ously) I tell you what, Runion, wouldn't it be a 



12 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

fine thing if we could give a fire like this to all the 
poor wretches in London who haven't any? (Bus. 
RuNioN, turning) I think I would rather warm 
them up . . . just once . . . than make the finest 
statue that ever was carved. 

RuNioN. (In astonishment) All of 'em, sir? 
That's rather a large contrack. 

Peyton. (Laughing) Well, not exactly! (Sits 
up) We have a big enough contract in taking care 
of ourselves. And by the way, Runion. . . If 
that wolf of ours keeps hanging around the door, 
why, just catch him by the tail, will you, pull him 
in, and we'll eat him. 

Runion. (r. c.) For supper, sir? 

Peyton, (l., smiling) Hurry with that blouse. 
(A noisy clatter of falling objects is heard outside 
R.) Good Lord! What's that? 

Runion. (Solemnly) It's Puckers, sir. She's 
gone down stairs. 

Peyton. (Impatiently) Well, run down — 
quick — and see if the child is hurt. 

Runion. (Grinning) Oh, she ain't 'urt, sir. 
She's only 'appy. She allers goes down like that 
w'en she's 'appy. (Goes to door r., opens it, and 
song is heard. Puckers sings snatch of " 'Art was 
true to Poll.") I can 'ear 'er asingin' of a ribald 
song, sir. (Closes door and gets blouse from up 
L. Bus. of getting into blouse) 

Peyton. (Laughing) What a wonderful child 
she is. She must have been born on some glorious 
holiday like the fourth of July. Eh, Runion? 

Runion. Yes, sir, very likely, sir. 

Peyton. Oh! You don't understand that 4th 
of July business, do you? 

RuNTON. Can't say as I do, sir. 

Peyton. (Taking cloth from statue) Well, 
some day, when I have plenty of time, I'll tell you 
all about it. (He steps from the table, folds the 
wet cloth, then walks around the statue regarding 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 13 

it critically. The figure respresenis a life-sized 
woman in very scanty draperies) Isn't she a 
bouncer, Runion? 

RuNioN. {Down R.) Yes, sir; I think she 
might be called — um — a bouncer, sir, an' no mis- 
take. 

Peyton. Fine girl, Runion ! Fine girl ! What 
do you think of her — eh? 

Runion. {Hesitating) I'd — er — I'd rawther 
not say, sir. 

Peyton. Come, come, man, don't be afraid! 
Honestly now, honestly. 

Runion. Beggin' your pardon before, I should 
say 'er attitood is — er — is a bit brazen, sir. 

Peyton. Good ! The lady's name was Circe, 
and sb.e possessed — in a marked degree — the rakish 
attribute you call to mind. {To R. of statue, begins 
work ) 

(Runion crosses to r., placing the coffee pot he- 
fore the fire.) 

Runion. 'Ere's a box w'at come for you this 
evenin'. {Starts to pick it up) 

Peyton. Oh, that! Yes — box of clay. Well, 
leave it where it is. We'll open it to-morrow. Any 
letters ? 

Runion. Only bills, sir. 

Peyton. {Busy with his work) Bills, eh? 
They do have a way of coming, don't they? By 
the way, how much wages do I owe you now? 

Runion. Three months and eleven days, sir; 
arskin' your pardon for mentionin' the exac' fig- 
gers, sir 

Peyton. {Working) That's all right. I ad- 
mire your accuracy. {After pause) I think I got 
an order to-day .... and if it turns out as I 
hope you will lose nothing by waiting so long and 
patiently. 



14 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

RuNioN. Thank you, sir. (Turns toward R. 
again ) 

Peyton. Any callers? 

RuNioN. One, sir. She was 'ere three times, 
sir. 

Peyton. {Looking up from work) Well, why 
didn't you tell me before? 

RuNioN. Arskin' your pardon, sir, I didn't wish 
to trouble you. It was only Mrs. Arrington, sir. 

Peyton. {Carelessly. Resuming work) Oh, 
what did she want? 

RuNioN. To see you, sir; but I thinks as 'ow 
she was beggin', so I didn't 'old no encouragements, 
sir. 

Peyton. Begging, eh? I thought she'd come to 
it sooner or later. . . It's the same old story. Run- 
ion, the same old story. {Making several delicate 
touches, then stepping hack to note the effect) 
Do you know that woman used to be one of the 
handsomest models in London. And a good 
woman, too — save the mark — but a fool. She mar- 
ried a brute who spent her savings, thrashed her 
periodically, drank himself to death, and left her 
with nothing in God's world but a baby . . . and 
the memory of a life's blunder. What's the result? 
{Shrugging) Health gone — beauty and figure with 
it — no work. {After working a moment in silence) 
What made you think she was begging? 

Runion. She awsked me for some bread for 
'er baby, sir. 

Peyton. {Dropping his wooden tool with an ex- 
clamation of pain and wheeling on Runion) 
What! And you gave her no encouragement. . . 
Runion, I'm ashamed of you. {Stripping off his 
blouse and tossing it at Runion who puts it on 
table R.) Here — get my overcoat — hurry! .What 
address did she give? {He kicks off his slippers 
and begins putting on his shoes, tugging at the lace 
strings savagely at fire-place l.) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 15 

RuNioN. I — I didn't awsk for 'er address, sir — • 
but 

Peyton. Oh, of course not! Get my hat! Get 
my hat! 

RuNiON. (Getting the hat, putting it on table c, 
then holding the overcoat) Won't — er — won't you 
'ave your coffee, sir, before you starts? It- 



Peyton. {Shortly) No! You can drink that 
yourself. 

RuNioN. Awskin' your pardon, sir, she said 
as 'ow she was acomin' back, sir, if — if she could. 

Peyton. {Looking up from fastening shoes) 
What d'ye mean by that? 

RuNioN. {Meekly) Well sir, she was a-lookin' 
rawther ill and — and broke-uppish, sir, and 

Peyton. {Angrily) Confound you, Runion, 
I've tried to be patient with you but I swear I 
feel like kicking you down stairs ! 

Runion. (l. hy table, faltering) Yes, sir, 
thank you, sir ! I — I gave 'er the bread, sir, an 

Peyton. Oh, you did, did you? Well, I'm 
going out to find her. {Starts across to r. door. 
Turning and speaking with ironical contempt) 
Now, you sit by the nice warm fire, Runion, and 
make yourself comfortable, and happy. The de- 
canter is over there on the table and — and for 
mercy's sake, don't — catch — cold! {He pulls his 
hat dozvn firmly on his head and starts for the door, 
when a TIMID KNOCK is heard. Runion 
starts forward, but Peyton checks him, still speak- 
ing ironically) Oh, don't trouble yourself, I beg 
you. {Sharply. Throws blouse at Runion, which 
he picks up from table R.) Get out. You fool, 
get out. (Runion picks up blouse from the floor 
and goes up centre. Peyton opens the door to dis- 
cover Mrs. Arrington leaning weakly against the 
frame. She is thinly clad, ghastly pale, and walks 
unsteadily as she comes forward, breathing labori- 
oitsly) Why, Mrs. Arrington! I was just going 



i6 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

out to look for you. (Mrs. Arrington lifts her 
head in an effort to speak, staggers and falls for- 
ward into Peyton's arms) Here, Runion — push 
that sofa closer to the fire. (Placing her down 
gently) The cushion for her head! There! Now 
get the whiskey. {Taking a glass of spirits from 
Runion, raising her head and placing it to her 
lips) Take a good swallow of this. Don't be 
afraid. It won't hurt you. Please! 

Mrs. Arrington. {Weakly) Thank you — 
{She drinks a small quantity) 

Peyton. You'll be all right in a little while. 
{Bus.) There — I know all about it. Don't try to 
talk. {Turning) Now, Runion, get something 
hot — and hurry. {Once more placing the glass to 
Mrs. Arrington's lips) Once more — please. 
{Gently) You should have sent m^ word. You 
know that I would have been only too glad to help 
you, even though it was a mite. 

Mrs. Arrington. Yes, yes, I know; but I was 
ashamed to ask so often. You — you've been too 
good to me already. Of all my old friends, you 
have been the most generous — {Catching Pey- 
ton's hand as he raises it in a gesture of dissent) 
No, don't deny it. Let me keep the memory to the 
last. You tried to make me feel that it was not a 
gift — not charity — but I know . . . and may God 
give it back to you tenfold, Mr. Peyton. 

Peyton. We won't speak of that. {Turns R.) 

Mrs. Arrington. (Intensely) But I must . . . 
I must ask the greatest charity of all. 

Peyton. There, now, you are nervous and ex- 
cited. Come, we'll have something to eat and then 
talk it over quietly. (Turning) How are you 
getting on, Runion? 

Runion. (At the oil stove) In a minute, sir. 

Mrs. Arrington. (Half pleading, half impa- 
tient) I must speak with you — alone — Send your 
man away! Please! 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 17 

Peyton. (Crossing to Runion) Step out and 
get a doctor as soon as you can! 

Runion. Very good, sir. (Takes hat and coat 
from peg above door and hurries out at r.) 

Peyton. (Returning to sofa) Now, Mrs. Ar- 
rington, tell me what is troubling you. (Sits in 
chair which he brings from l. of table) I will help 
you if I can. 

Mrs. Arrington. You don't know what you are 
promising — (After a pause, in a calmer tone) 
I've told you I was ill — but it's worse — I'm dying. 
(As Peyton starts, then turns with a reassuring 
smile ) 

Peyton. Lie down. I beg of you. (Bus. Puts 
chair up stage) I've sent Runion for a doctor. 

Mrs. Arrington. (Checking him) No. . . It's 
gone too far for that. I've reached the end. 
(Looking into his eyes) I'm not afraid for myself 
— but my baby — my baby 

Peyton. (After pause) And you come to me? 
To ask — me to 

Mrs. Arrington. No, not to ask. To beg — ^to 
implore — you — take my baby when I have gone — 
(Peyton starts) the one shaft of God's sunlight 
that has pierced the hell of my misfortune. My 
baby — my little one — for whom I have fought de- 
spair — for whom I have given life itself . . . and 
given it in vain ! (Sinks back on sofa) 

Peyton. There, there, you are not going to 
die. Your baby needs you and you've got to live 
for it ! ) 

Mrs. Arrington. (Passionately. Sitting up 
again) Oh, how can I make you understand? 
(Reaching for his hand, rises slowly facing him) 
But, you'll take my little one when I can no longer 
care for her — ? Yes — yes— For the love of your 
own mother — for the love of the woman who will 
some day be your wife — promise! Promise! 
(Holding his hand in both of hers) 



i8 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Peyton. (Restlessly) There, there, my friend. 
It's easy enough to make a promise but I won't de- 
ceive you. (Removes hand) What you ask is im- 
possible. (Mrs. Arrington cries out, buries her 
face in her hands, falls face downward in the pil- 
lozus, hut is checked by a fit of coughing) You ask 
me to take your baby. (Crosses to c.) What under 
heaven should I do with it? (Turns) I'm a 
young fellow — poor as a church mouse — struggling 
to make both ends meet. And ihty^don't sometimes. 
Besides, this is no place to bring up a child. (Re- 
turning to her) How old is it? 

Mrs. Arrington. (Hopefully sits up) Six — ■ 
but bright — intelligent 

Peyton. (Interrupting) There, you see? Six 
years! A mere tot — dependent upon someone 
every minute of the day or night. I don't mean to 
be selfish, but — but — Good Lord ! — I don't know an 
earthly thing about babies, — not a thing! (Pause) 
Is it a boy or a girl ? 

Mrs. Arrington. A girl. Her name is Claudia, 
and — (Again she is checked by a fit of coughing) 

Peyton. (Striding rapidly and rubbing his 

hands nervously) A girl! .... H'u'm 

That's bad. . . . (Pausing and turning) 

Mrs. Arrington. (Then hopefully) But she 
would give you little trouble. (Sits end of sofa) 

Peyton. But, have you no relatives — yours or 
your husbands? 

Mrs. Arrington. (Shaking her head slowly 
and sadly) There is no one in the whole world to 
whom I can turn. But with you I could trust her. 
You are good — generous — a man! (Raising her 
eyes to him) I have given all for her — all "but 
honor. . . . 

Peyton, (l. c.) Oh! It makes me feel like a 
brute to refuse you ; but think ! I'm engaged to 
be married — (Turning appealingly) You can see 
my position, Mrs. Arrington, how utterly impos — 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 19 

{He looks into her suffering face and pauses 
abruptly) 

Mrs. Arrington. You may think differently 
when you see her. I left her below with the care- 
taker, because I did not wish her to hear — to know. 
{Facing him, frightened, trembling) Only let me 
bring her to you? {Gets to her feet, starts across 
to c. Peyton is silent. Mrs. Arrington watches 
him a moment in hope and fear, then turns weakly 
toward the door, but Peyton takes her arm, striv- 
ing to restrain her gently) 

Peyton. {Stops her gently — puts arms around 
her to support her) No, my friend. It wouldn't 
do any good. We must think up some other plan 
— some institute in which 

Mrs. Arrington. {Wrenching away from him, 
crosses to R.) Stop! Stop! — in pity's name! 

Peyton. But listen 

Mrs. Arrington. I feared it! The work-house 
for my bab}^ — and then — Oh, God, the streets of 
London! The shame — the horror — {Sinks on 
bench in front of model with face buried in arms 
on table) 

Peyton. {Striz/ing to calm her) Listen at 
least to reason. 

Mrs. Arrington. Reason! No! I must find 
some place. {Rises abruptly; she laughs bitterly) 
Don't stop me now. {As she starts for door, Pey- 
ton gently, with arms around her, leads her back 
to sofa where she sinks) 

Peyton. I'm not the brute you think me — only 
— it's impossible — try to control yourself — the 
doctor will be here presently and then 

Mrs. Arrington. {Slips off sofa to her knees 
with arms outstretched) Oh, sir, promise me — in 
Christ's name, promise that you'll not desert her — • 
that you will love her . . . as . . . your own. {She 
stretches out her arms to him in a mute but pitiful 
appeal. Peyton stands irresolute, while a light of 



20 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

understanding grows sloivly upon his features. His 
hands are clenched. He looks away into nothing- 
ness, then hack at Mrs. Arrington) 

Peyton. {Lifting his head) I promise .... 

on my honor {Puts out hands and gently 

raises her to her feet) 

Mrs. Arrington. Oh, God bless you, — God 
bless you. {She collapses in his arms and catching 
her he quickly lays her on sofa, head on pillows. 
He snatches glass of zvhiskey on table and starts to 
give her some. As he puts glass to her lips he 
glances at her eyes, then slowly drops glass on 
floor, while the lights go slowly out) 

END OF SCENE FIRST. 

{Intermezzo between scenes — short wait.) 

Scene H : — One hour later. 

Arrangement of the stage the same as in Scene 
First. The curtain being drawn to obviate 
the necessity of the death of Mrs. Arrington 
on the stage and her removal from the room. 

Discovered: — Runion, sweeping up glass from 
floor. A KNOCK is heard at door at right, 
Ballington enters as Runion rises- 

Balling. {Advances to c.) Hello, Runion. 
Peyton back yet? 

Runion. {Rises, as Ballington enters) No, 
sir ; not yet, sir. 

Balling. H'u'm ! Well — we'll see him later. I 
suppose he's having no end of red tape with the 
coroner and — and that sort of thing. Deuced un- 
fortunate! Dead? They took her away? (Run- 
ion nods) A gentlewoman to her fingertips — best 
model I ever had — {Sighing as he crosses R.) Oh, 
well! It's all on the canvas, my boy, but she 
might have a better hanging. {Crosses to Run- 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 21 

TON. Speaking bashfully) Wish you'd say to Pey- 
ton that — er — that I'd take it as a favor if he'd call 
on me in any way to — he'll understand. 

RuNioN. {By table c.) Yes, sir. Very good, 
sir. 

Balling, (r. from doorway) And by the way, 
Runion — that little girl of Mrs. Arrington's, she's 
down stairs with the care-taker. Bright little 
monkey! Think I'd better send her up? {Starts 
to exit. Runion hesitates) 

Runion. Beg pardon, sir, but I wouldn't do 
that. She doesn't know^ about her mother as yet. 
You'd better wait till Mr. Peyton gets back, sir. 

Balling. Um — yes, I dare say you are right. 
{Tnrmng to Runion) Tell Billy we are up stairs, 
if he needs us for anything, w^on't you. {He passes 
out R.) 

(Runion stands same attitude that Ballington 
left him in.) 

Runion. Generous chaps these artist gentlemen. 
It's a pity their pocketbooks ain't as big as their 
hearts. 

{After a moment or tzvo Peyton enters from r. 
and Runion crosses, helping him off with his 
overcoat.) 

Runion. {Removes Peyton's coat at c, hangs 
it up L.) Did you get it over, sir? 

Peyton. Yes; most of it. She will be buried 
quietly to-morrow. 

Runion. You've done a great deal in an hour, 
sir. 

Peyton. {Crossing to the fire) I wish we 
weren't so confoundedly poor. I'd like to see it 
done better 

Runion. Beg pardon, sir, but Mr. Ballington 



22 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

was 'ere jus' now — quite sober, sir. He says — 

as 'ow — you might call on 'im in any way 

Peyton. (Impatiently) Yes, yes, thank you. 
RuNioN. Yes, sir, thank you, sir. (Exits at r.) 
Peyton. (Looking into fire) Poor woman! 
. . . Poor woman! . . . But what have I prom- 
ised her. . . . What? What in the name of com- 
mon sense . . . shall I do with the little one? .... 
I was a fool to promise. . . . (Crosses to c.) And 
yet — It made the mother's death less hard. (Sits 
on bench in front of table c.) . . . . Though hard 
enough, God knows. (Face in hands. He lapses 
into silence) 

{Presently the door at right opens quietly and 
Claudia enters. She wears a short skirt, 
barely reaching her knees, and a velvet cloak, 
worn and threadbare. For a moment she looks 
curiously about her, then tiptoes across the 
room, and stands gazing at Peyton. She waits 
for him to look up, but he does not see her.) 

Claudia, (r. c.) I want my mamma! 

Peyton. (Springing up, down c.) Why — why, 
good gracious me! I didn't know 

Claudia. Don't be afraid. I won't hurt you. 

Peyton. (With his hands in his pockets, look- 
ing down at her in amused surprise) Well — I'll be 
— um — who are you? 

Claudia. Claudia. 

Peyton. (Starting) Why, of course. I might 
have known. How stupid of me. 

Claudia. I got a lot more names, though. 

Peyton. Have you, dearie? What are they? 

Claudia. Piggy and Granny — and Brat. But I 
don't like that one. 

Peyton. Well, I shouldn't think you would! 
Who calls you such — er — disrespectful names? 
(Sits on box facing her) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 23 

Claudia. The boys. 

Peyton. {Smiling) Oh, indeed! Well, we 
won't have them doing that ! 

Claudia. {Pointing at statue) They make dol- 
lies — just like yours. 

Peyton. (Laughing) Oho! I see! You mean 
the professional boys. Your mamma takes you 
with her to her sittings — is that it? 

Claudia. (Still r. c. After a thoughtful pause, 
nodding) Um'hum ! but she don't go any more. 
She stays at home . . . and coughs, 

Peyton. (Tenderly) Yes, dear, I know. 
(Smiling) But, when she used to take you I sup- 
pose you learned all about mud dollies, didn't you? 

Claudia. Oh, yes. (Pointing to statue, regard- 
ing it solemnly) I like that one. She's — she's a 
beautiful dolly. 

Peyton. (Laughing) Well, upon my word! 
(With a bow) Thank you. Granny — thank you. 
Well, you do know something of art, don't you? 

Claudia. (Soberly) Where's her clothes? 
(Looking around) But you've got a good fire 
.... to keep her warm. 

Peyton. Um .... Yes. That's it, exactly. 
(Mounting the platform from l. and adjusting the 
cloth) Let's put a cloak on her and — and change 
the subject. (With a final touch) There! That 
ought to make her snug and comfortable. 

Claudia. What's her name? 

Peyton, (Still standing on the platform — stand 
between chair and table) Her name is Circe. I'll 
tell you her story some day! 

Claudia. Can you tell stories? 

Peyton. Oh, lots of 'em ! (He steps down from 
the platform) 

Claudia. (With a catch in her breath) I — I 
wish my mamma had bringed me before. What's 
your name? 

Peyton. (Solemnly) William Musgrave Baker- 



24 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

ville Peyton — late of America — land of Dixie — at 
your service. 

Claudia. Goodness ! Haven't you got a shorter 
one? 

Peyton. Ha! That's a question (Steps down) 
and we'll have to talk it over — you and I — and pick 
out the one that suits you best. (Picks her up and 
stands her on bench in front of table c.) Now, 
suppose I take off your hat and coat and make you 
more comfortable. (Takes things off) There, 
that's better. (Sits her on bench. She starts to 
ask about her mother, he stops her and gets an apple 
from mantel which he gives her) 

Claudia. (After taking the apple) I like you. 

Peyton. (Smiling) Do you? Pm glad of that. 
(She bites apple) And I like you — well — this 
much. (He gives her a hug, she drops apple, he 
picks it up for her and keeps his arm about her) 

Claudia. (Laughing) That's what mamma 
does. (Looking up at him soberly) Where is 
mamma? 

Peyton. (Takes her hand in his and is silent 
for a moment) Piggy dear, that's another thing I 
want to talk to you about, and ask you to help me. 
To help 7ne and to help mamma. You'd like that, 
wouldn't you? (As Claudia nods) Good! You 
know how ill she's been — how she coughs at night 
— and how it hurts her? (Claudia nods, bites into 
apple agaiji) Well ... we want her to go away 
... to a place where she won't feel the hurt any 
more . . where her poor, tired hands can rest. 
Piggy, and never work again. 

Claudia. Will — will she take me with her ? 

Peyton. No, dear, not just yet, and Til tell you 
why. Little girls have to be washed and dressed 
and — and have a lot of things done for 'em. Then 
there are pins and combs and shoe-strings and — 
Good gracious me, Piggy ! get right down to it, 
there must be a million of 'em. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 25 

Claudia. And the Catechism, too? 

Peyton. Catechism! Why — Oh, yes, yes — of 
course! We'll go for the catechism like — like 
blazes. 

Claudia. Like blazes! (Laughing) That's a 
funny way — how do you do it? 

Peyton. Um — well, I don't know exactly, right 
at the — er — the jump, but we'll do it somehow. 
But now we want your mamma to rest and 
sleep 

Claudia. Is she asleep now? 

Peyton. {Pressing her close to him) Yes, 
Pife.^y • • • she's asleep. {After a short pause) 
And if we want her to rest and be happy, you must 
stay here with me. Just think, Claudia, I haven't 
any little girl. I'm here all by myself, with only 
Runion. (Claudia looks up inquiringly) He's my 
servant, dear. (Gently) And it's frightfully lone- 
sorrie. I need a little girl like you — to take care of 
me and help me make my big mud dollies. You'd 
like that, wouldn't you? 

Claudia. {After thoughtful pause) Rather. 
\\^ould — would that make you be my Daddy? 

Peyton. H'u'm! . . In a way — yes. You — er 
— you might call me that — if you choose. 

Claudia. And will you let me make mud dollies, 
too? 

Peyton. A thousand of 'em, if you like. 

Claudia. Oh, jolly, — jolly! — jolly! {Claps 
hands) And I can tell you when it's supper time? 

Peyton. Yes. Any old time is supper time. 

Claudia. I'm — I'm hungry now. 

Peyton. {Striking his palm with his fist. Down 
c, as he speaks) Lord! What a dunderhead I 
am ! My dear, we'll have that supper in just three 
shakes of a sheep's tail. {Crosses to table R.) 

Claudia. Can I help, Daddy? {Puts apple down 
on table c.) 

Peyton. {Aside) Daddy! {Turning) Why, 



26 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

of course you may, my dear. Do you see that pile 
of books over there — (Points up r.) Put three of 
'em on the floor by that box. Now sit down on 'em' ! 
That's your chair and table. (Claudia seats her- 
self beside the box of clay, while Peyton crosses 
and tears a sketch from his easel, laying it on the 
box) That's your table cloth. How's that? 
(Claudia, clapping her hands) Here's a plate — a 
fat little cup — a great big carvum knife. Know the 
song about that knife? {Waves knife in the air 
and sings. On one knee very close to her) 

Three blind mice! 
See how they run ! 

(Claudia sings with him.) 
They all ran after the farmer's wife; 
She cut off their tails with a carvum knife ; 
Did you ever see such a sight in your life — 
As three blind mice? 

Peyton. Ha, ha, ha, ha! How's that, Piggy? 

Claudia. It's — it's — it's just rippin'! 

Peyton. Always did like that song. (Turning 
io cooking) There! (Apologetically) You see, 
my dear, for rush orders such as yours, the bill of 
fare is like this: 

Bread and jam and milk. 
And milk and jam and bread, 
And jam and bread and milk. 
(Checking off on his fingers. Seats himself on the 
bench opposite her, and hugging his knees) Now, 
little one, go for it! (Claudia hesitates) Well — ? 

Claudia. It — it ain't polite to eat with — witH 
just a knife. 

Peyton. (Springing up) I beg your pardon. 
Here's the family spoon? (Crossing with large 
spoon) How's that? 

Claudia. (Turning the spoon over in her hand) 
You haven't got a pusher, have you? 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 2^ 

Peyton. A what? 

Claudia. A pusher. 

Peyton. A pusher? {Looks around helplessly) 
Well — er — well, no, Piggy, I — I really don't believe 
I have. Oh, by the way, I think I'll do your head 
while you are having your supper. {Crossing and 
returning with a small lump of clay which he he- 
gins kneading with his hands) I wouldn't be a bit 
surprised if the sand-man came to see us soon. 

Claudia. The sand-man? 

Peyton. {Smiling) He's a nice old fellow who 
puts things in little girls' eyes and makes 'em sleepy, 
you know. By the way, Claudia, what do you sleep 
in at night? 

Claudia. {Staring at him) I — I sleep in a bed. 

Peyton. {Laughing) Yes — of course, of 
course! But what I mean is — er — don't have — um 
— some sort of a little night-shirt or something? 

Claudia. {Thoughtfully) I — I used to, but — 
but it wored out. 

Peyton. Oh, I see. That's bad! Well, we'll 
have to fix you up somehow. (Puckers enters 
with scuttle; slams door) You must not burst in 
like that! This isn't Balaklava or the Vale of the 
Thousand Bricks ! 

Puckers. {Holding up her brick, R.) I come to 
fix the fire, sir. 

Peyton, (r. c.) Well, go ahead and fix it and 
try to be a little more maidenly and a little less hip- 
popotamussy. Am I clear? 

Claudia. You'll wake my mamma up if you 
make so much noise. 

Puckers. 'Ello ! ( Wheeling sharply, advancing 
and laughing) Lorsy me! You is so little I ain't 
even seen yer. {Turning to Peyton) Yours? 

Peyton. {Up r. c, then crosses to fire-place l.) 
Yes, she's mme. 

Puckers, (c, hands on knee; to Claudia) 
Wotcher name? 



28 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Peyton. (Pointing a muddy finger at her) Her 
name is Miss Claudia. Miss Claudia. Understand? 
(To RuNioN, who enters from door r. ; hangs up 
hat, etc.) And you, too, Runion. This is my ward 
— Miss Claudia — she has come to take care of us. 

Runion. (Coming dozvn r., checking his wonder 
and answering promptly) Very good, sir. 

Claudia. (Puckers crosses to fire-place l., 
hangs up brick as before. Nodding her head) Pm 
going to stay till my mamma comes back. 

Runion. (Starting) Lor', Miss — your 

mamma 

Peyton. Steady, steady, Runion! 

Runion. (Crossing to Claudia) — will — er — 
will be 'appy to 'ave you here. Miss; I 'opes you'll 
be 'appy too, Miss. 

Peyton. Thank you, Runion. Just run down 
stairs, will you, and ask the care-taker if she will 
lend you a little — er — night-shirt. 

Runion. Wot! For me, sir? (As Peyton 
points to Ci.A.\JDiA.) O — h! (Exit) 

Peyton. (Sits l. of table, smiling; to Claudia) 
Now, Piggy, sit still a moment, will you — just as 
you are. (Modeling) Chin up! Ah, that's it! 
Now smile! 

Puckers. (l., looking over his shoulder) 
Dearie me! You'se a-makin' of 'er burst, ain't yer? 
(As Peyton nods) Say! I wish't you'd do me 
sometime. / can repose for a statue easy. 

Peyton. Is that so? (Smiling) Well, when I 
want to make an imp I'll send for you. 

Puckers. (Moves l. Thoughtfully) Did you 
say ... a imp ... or a Nymp? 

Peyton. (Turning) I said an imp ... a 
smutty-faced little imp! 

Puckers. Me? Ho, Lud, yes! / can repose 
for anythink — from the weepin' Handrumiky right 
smack down to HapoUo. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 29 

Peyton. Can you, now? Well, as it happens 
Apollo wasn't a girl. 

Puckers. Wasn't she, now? — O-h ! {She turns 
up c.) 

Peyton. {Crosses to l. c. and sits on bench 
front of table) My! What dirty hands! Here, 
Runion ; bring me a basin of water. Puckers, get a 
towel and some soap. 

{As he lifts Claudia into his lap, Runion crosses 
and stands on one r. side of him with the basin 
of zvater, zvith Puckers on the l., holding the 
towel and soap.) 

Peyton. First we'll take this grimy little fist. 
{He washes it, and drys it on a corner of the 
towel) 

Puckers. H'm ! She ain't dirty much. Look at 
me. 

Peyton. Um — yes. What you need, Puckers, 
is a large piece of good coarse sand-paper and a 
short visit to a Turkish Bath. {To Claudia) 
There, Piggy. Now, give me the other one. 

Claudia. {Looking up at him) Daddy . . . 
are you somebody's mamma, with — with trousers 
on? 

Peyton. {Smiling) Why, what a question. 
What makes you say that ? 

Claudia. 'Cause — 'cause you know how. 

Peyton. Good! And now I think we'll have a 
pass or two at this wise little face of yours. 

(Puckers hands him the towel and goes around 
table to c. He begins washing her face with a 
corner of the towel.) 

Claudia. O-u-c-h ! 

Puckers, (c, bursting into a laugh) Ho, Lud! 
/ knowed 'e wasn't nobody's mammer. 



30 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Peyton. (Sympathetically) A — h! Did I hurt 
you, Piggy? Well, never mind. It's all done. It's 
all done. (Runion and Puckers down r. laugh 
heartily together until, stopped by indignant Pey- 
ton, they stop suddenly) Runion, you may be ex- 
cused. 

Runion. (Bowing and retreating with the 
basin) Thank you. (Puts basin up stage) 

Peyton. (Calling) Oh, I say — Runion! Bet- 
ter gtt some milk before you leave. She might 
wake up in the night and 

Claudia. (With flouted dignity) I don't drink 
milk at night. Babies do that. 

Peyton. (Laughing foolishly. Looking at Run- 
ion) Oh, babies do that! (Turning to Runion 
zvith a grin) Better make it a hand glass and a box 
of rouge. 

Runion. (Solemnly) Very good, sir. (Starts 
azvay) 

Peyton. Man alive — that's a joke. (Impa- 
tiently) 

Runion. Is it, sir? Very good, sir. Good- 
night. 

Puckers. Say! 'E's a awful fool . . . ain't 'e? 

Peyton. (Smiling) Puckers .... there are 
certain axioms to which a reference is garish and 
impolite. (With a bow) And now — if you will 
pardon me — I suggest that the nymph retire to her 
coral couch in the limpid depth of her subter- 
ranean bower. 

Puckers. Sir? 

Peyton. Oh — in other words — will you please 
get out? 

Puckers. O — h ! (She crosses in front, de- 
murely, to fire-place and unhooks her brick, keeps 
her back to Peyton for bus. Sits on floor, warms 
hands) 

Peyton. (To Claudia, as he sets her on feet) 
Now, dear, we'll get undressed. (Business of look- 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 31 

ing at front and sides of dress for buttons. He 
looks nonplussed, then towards Puckers, as if to 
ask her; business; then finally speaks to Claudia) 

Claudia. It buttons in the back. 

Peyton. Ah! I thought so. How stupid of 
me. {He begins unfastening her dress) 

Puckers. {Crossing behind table to r. c.) 
Good-night, Miss Claudy. 

Claudia. Good-night, Puckers. Come back in 
the mornin', won't you? 

Puckers. I will, Miss. Yes'm. {To Peyton, 
with a grin) Good-night, Mr. Mommer with 
trousers on! {She laughs and exits noisily) 

Peyton. {Calling loudly) Here, you! {Smil- 
ing) Poor little motherless rat! {To Claudia) 
Now, Piggy! {He unfastens her dress, leaving her 
in low-necked underbody and a skimpy, ragged pet- 
ticoat. He then unties the bundle which Runion 
has brought, shakes out a tiny little nightgozvn and 
holds it up admiringly) See that gown? That's 
a wishing-gown, just like a wishing cap in the fairy 
book. 

Claudia. Is it? 

Peyton. {Nodding) Um-hum. You just put 
it on, {Bus.) and wish yourself asleep, and in a 
little while, why — why, there vou are. See? {She 
looks at him wonderingly. He puts the gown over 
her head, then unfastens her underclothing from 
beneath) 

Claudia. {Kicking to free herself from the 
tangle of clothes) Will you tell me a story now? 

Peyton. {Taking her into his lap and pulling 
off her shoes and stockings) The very nicest one I 
know. But let's get ready first. We can't go to 
bed with our shoes and stockings on. {Holding up 
one much-worn shoe and shaking his head) Um! 
We'll have to see about some bran' new hoffies soon. 
Gracious ! and stockings, too ! These five little pink 
rascals are peeping out of jail. Oh! did you ever 



32 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 



hear that little story about the five little pink ras- 
cals? 

This little pig went to market, 
This little pig stayed home, 
This little pig got roast beef, 
And this little pig got none, 

And this little pig said wee-wee-wee all the way 
home. 

(Laughing. Rising and placing her in his chair 
L. of table, she takes up the apple again from table) 
Now, sit right there while I warm your nest. (He 
crosses to the fire-place, holding his dressing-gown 
before the blaze) 

Claudia. {Climbing from the chair) I — I 
haven't kissed mamma good-night, yet. (Starts 
toward rear by c.) 

Peyton. (Nervously, as he intercepts her) 
Well — we — well, you know I said mamma was 
resting, dear — and — come, let me wrap you up. 
(Claudia puts her fingers in her mouth and backs 
azmy distrustfully. Peyton looks at her a moment 
in silence, then speaks tenderly, caressingly, as he 
kneels with the dressing-gown in his hands) 
Claudia . . . would you disturb mamma . . . when 
she needs her rest? She told me to kiss you for 
her, darling. . . . (Claudia goes to him l.) She 
whispered it ... . before she went to sleep. 

(Claudia sighs, then places one hand in his confi- 
dentially. ) 

Claudia. And we won't wake her up ... • 
will we? 

(Peyton shakes his head, then in silence he wraps 
her in the dressing-gown, seats himself and 
holds her in his arms.) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 33 

Peyton. (Sits on couch in the firelight) Now, 
suppose we have that story. Which shall it be, a 
true story — or a make-believe story? 

Claudia. Oh, a true one — with a Prince in it — 
just like you. 

Peyton. Just like me? All right. Um. . . . 
Once upon a time there was a poor, young 
chap, 

Claudia. Is a Prince a chap ? 

Peyton. Well, yes — sometimes. This one was, 
anyway. Once upon a time there was a, poor, young 
chap .... and he lived in a bully old city named 
New York. 

Claudia. What does " bully " mean ? 

Peyton. Bully? Oh! great and splendid — fine. 
But the Chap wasn't much of a Prince, after all, for 
he hadn't any money. Piggy .... and he just had 
to scratch for a living. 

Claudia. Like a chicken? 

Peyton. (Nodding) Um-hum! That's it — ex- 
actly. . . . And he made little figures out of clay; 
but the people wouldn't buy 'em — and then^ — to 
make it worse — he met a Princess. 

Claudia. A real Princess? 

Peyton. (Dreamily) Yes, dear. . . . She was 
beautiful .... and good . . . with great brown 
glorious eyes .... that looked into the Prince 
Chap's soul . . . and made him hungry ... for 
her love. 

Claudia. (After pause) What was the Prin- 



cess name 



Peyton. (Tenderly) Princess .... Alice. 

Claudia. And did she like the Prince? 

Peyton. Yes, dear; she liked him so much that 
— that she cried when he went away. 

Claudia. Why did he have to go away ? 

Peyton. To seek his fortune, Claudia. . . . He 
went in a big, big ship . . . and left her watching 
... on the shore. . . And when he had sailed for 



34 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

miles and miles, he came to land . . . and began 
his work again. . . And it was hard, Piggy ... for 
the critics laughed . . . and the people passed him, 
one by one, and wouldn't buy. . . He was hungry 
. . . and alone. . . But when at night he would lie 
in his little dark room, to think, and think, and 
think, why, then, he would remember Princess 
Alice — He'd see her watching on the shore — watch- 
ing for him — and somehow ... it made him 
strong again .... and then 

Claudia. Did the Prince Chap go home? 

Peyton. (Gently) No, Piggy, for the story 
isn't finished yet — not yet. 

Claudia. (Nestling closer in his arms) And 
will you tell it to rrie . . . when it is? 

Peyton. (Sadly) Yes, darling 

I'll tell it to you . . . when it is. (With a change 
of tone) Now, suppose we whisper to that wish- 
ing-gown, and go fast asleep? 

Claudia. (Slipping from his lap) But — I 
haven't said my prayers yet. 

Peyton. Why — er — oh, yes — yes, of course. I 
— I had forgotten about the prayers. 

Claudia. Don't you say prayers to — to keep 
things from catchin' you? 

Peyton. (Nervously) Well — er — you see — it's 
this way. There are lots of different kinds of 
prayers, and — er — and I dare say mine are — um — 
sort of different. How do yours begin? 

Claudia. Why, don't you know ? Now I lay me 
— Prayers always begin like that. 

Peyton. Ah ! Of course they do ! Used to say 
'em that way myself when I was a 'little shaver. 
Well, come on, Piggy, and we'll see if we can sort 
of work 'em out together. (He takes the apple from 
her and puts it beside him; she notes position. As 
Claudia kneels before him, bowing her head upon 
his knee) You go ahead and I'll — and I'll listen. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 35 

Claudia. {Looking up) Oh, but you have to 
help. 

Peyton. {Cheerfully) All right. Now I lay 
me 



Claudia. Now I lay me down to sleep. 

Peyton. I pr-y the Lord 

Claudia. My soul to keep. 

Peyton. If I 

Claudia. If I 



Peyton. If I should 

Claudia. If I should die before I wake, 

Peyton. I pray 

Claudia. The Lord my soul to take. 

Peyton. {With prompt finality) Amen! 

Claudia. {Looking up) Oh, no, it isn't amen 
yet. It's some more to it. And pray God bless 
mamma, and make her well and strong . . . and 
stop her coughin' .... and make me a good little 
girl . . . with clean hands . . and a clean face 
. . . and a clean heart. . . {Pause) 

Peyton. {Gently) Yes, dear .... go on. 

Claudia. {Looking up) And God bless Daddy 
. . . . and the Prince Chap? 

Peyton. {Biting his lips) Yes, little one. . . . 
I think we might put that in ... it wouldn't hurt. 

Claudia. And God bless Princess Alice 

(Peyton looks down on her a moment, hows his 
head, then silently folds her in his arms) I think 
that's all. Amen! {Reaches for her apple and 
holds it to her breast. He lifts her into his lap and 
lays her head against his shoulder, tucking the 
dressing-gown carefully about her. She puts her 
arms around his neck and kisses him, and settles 
herself with a sleepy sigh. There is a silence. 
The apple rolls from Claudia's grasp — the noise 
of its falling arouses her. Stirring, then speaking 
slowly, sleepily) Daddy . . . that was a . . . bully 
good prayer . . . wasn't it? 



36 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

{^Her eyes close again; her arm drops slowly to her 
side. Peyton looks before him, speaking in a 
half -conscious whisper. ) 

Peyton. Yes, darling .... I think it was 
the bulliest prayer ... I ever .... heard. 

CURTAIN. 



ACT II. 



Scene : — Five days before Christmas Day. 

Two years after close of Act First. Studio 
as before, with the exception of the furnish- 
ings, which are much finer. A large rug covers 
the floor and the statue is removed from the 
table. An air of prosperity pervades the 
room. Claudia, with a huge broom, is sweep- 
ing before the fire-place and hums a song as 
she works. 
Peyton enters from c. 

Peyton. (Up c.) Hullo, little woman. Why — 
(Stopping and laughing) What are you doing? 

Claudia. (At fire-place) Sweepin'. 

Peyton. (Comes down c.) Humph! Don't 
know which is the biggest, the contract or the 
broom. What is the cause of this — this sudden in- 
dustry ? 

Claudia. (To l. c.) You see . . . when Santa 
Claus comes down the chimney . . . and finds 
everything nice and clean and sweet, maybe — maybe 
he'll put in a few more things. 

Peyton. (Laughing and pointing his finger) 
Bribery, Piggy. Rank bribery! If you want him 
to bring you lots of things, you ought to keep the 
room sweet all the time. Not just once or twice, 



THE PRINCE CHAR 37 

but all the time. {Looks over mail on table c.) 
^ou see that, don't you? 

(Claudia rests on her broom, in thought.) 

Claudia. Daddy, how many days till Christmas, 
now? 

Peyton, Five more. Piggy. 

Claudia. {Sighing) I — I wish it was only 
three. 

Peyton. {Looking up with a smile) Wait un- 
til day after to-morrrow, and it will be only 
three — and then — Larks ! Come ! {She drops her 
broom and runs toward him. He regards the broom 
fixedlv until she turns, places it in a corner and 
comes to him) 

Peyton. Ah, that's better. Jump! {Swings 
her into lap. Frowning) Um — what were those 
things we wanted old Santa to bring us? 

Claudia. The muff and the box of domi- 
noes 

Peyton. Yes. 

Claudia. The sewing basket and the roller 
skates. 

Peyton. Of course. 

Claudia. And the wax doll that when you 
squeeze her in the stomach she says Wa-n-n-h ! 

Peyton. Er — Claudia, aren't you getting too old 
for dolls ? Suppose we cut it out ? 

Claudia. Just one more, Daddy. Just one more. 

Peyton. All right — all right. Anything more? 

Claudia. {Nodding) Lots! There's the slip- 
pers and things for Runion, a new dress for Puck- 
ers, and pipe and a hatrack, and oh! a secret, and 
nobody knows anything- about it but Runion and me. 
You won't ask him, will you? He'd tell all about it, 
'cause he's such a — such a dunderhead. 

Peyton. {Reprovingly) Claudia! You mustn't 
use such words. It's naughty! 



^38 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Claudia. But you say it, Daddy. 

Peyton. Um — yes — but that's different. 

Claudia. {After pause, looking up at him) 
Daddy, when we are having our jolly-go-bang, will 
mamma see us from way up in Heaven? 

Peyton. {Gently) Yes, darling ... I know 
she will . . . and it will make her, oh, so happy. 
Well, does the secret wind things up? 

Claudia. Oh, no. There's the purple balloon 
and the Noah's Ark, and a kitten, and — Oh ! a real 
live pony and a pony cart and 

Peyton. Hold on — a pony cart ! Hold on. 
Real live ponies cost heaps of money. Piggy, and 
you know our bargain. We are going to save until 
the bank man will take off his hat when he sees us 
in the street ; and then we will get on a big steam- 
boat and sail away to 

Claudia. To Princess Alice! 

Peyton. {Happily) Yes, dearie, yes! . . To 
Princess Alice . . . and then our life will be 
{Slowly) one . . . long . . . sweet . . . 

Claudia. Jolly-go-hangf 

Peyton. {Smiling and holding her close in his 
arms) I think it will be even more, little one . . . 
even more. 

Claudia. And will the Princess love me, Daddy ? 

Peyton. Love you? .... Yes. . . You will 
be our little girl then — he/s and mine. You would 
like that, wouldn't you? 

Claudia. {Thoughtfully) Daddy ... I think 
I would rather stay right here with — with just you. 

Peyton. Ah, bless your heart! {Kissing her) 
Well, run along to your sweeping now. (Claudia 
slips from his lap, takes up dust broom and pan 
and begins szveeping, humming happily to herself. 
Peyton returns to his letters) 

Claudia. {Reflectively. Comes to table op pa- 
site Peyton, kneels on a chair) Daddy! 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 39 

Peyton. {Seated r. of table) Well, little 
woman ? 

Claudia. Do you believe in Santa Claus — honest 
— double and twisted? 

Peyton. {Starting) Do I be — Why — why — 
Claudia! — what put such an idea into your head.^ 

Claudia. {Leaning forward, with her chin upon 
her hands) Eve been thinking, Daddy — hard — 
and I 

Peyton, {Tenderly) Well! Let's see if we 
can straighten it out. What's the trouble? 

Claudia. Is Santa Claus a good man? 

Peyton. Good! Why, he's just about the best 
old chap that ever lived. 

Claudia. {Slozuly) Then, why is it . . . that 
when children are rich, Santa Claus brings 'em — 
Oh — just heaps of things . . . and when they are 
poor, he — he don't bring 'em — er — hardly anything. 
Why is that, Daddy ? 

Peyton. {Simply sits and stares at Claudia, 
finally turns face R. and emits long whistle. Aside) 
Good Lord, but that's a poser! {Turning to 
Claudia — talks across table) Um — you see, Piggy 
— it's this way. That old man knows what he's 
about. Don't you doubt it for a minute. Now, 
take the rich children 

Claudia. But their Papas can give 'em toys and 
things, anyway. 

Peyton. {Scratching his head in perplexity) 
All right. Take the poor children. {He hesitates, 
looks troubled, then goes on) Suppose Santa Claus 
brought those poor children guns and trumpets 
and things. Do you think the little beggars would 
be satisfied? Not a bit of it. They'd just want 
more! It's all for the best! You see that, don't 
you ? {Sits in arm-chair. Picks up letter and scans 
page) 

Claudia. {Reflectively) No, I don't! 

Peyton. {Looks at her quickly. Thinking. 



46 THE PRINCE CHAR 

hard) Well, that's too bad. All right. Look at it 
another way. {He pauses again in- perplexity, then 
his face lights up) Ah! ... . (Moves chair) 
Now, foi the last whole month you've just been 
aching for a real live pony and a pony cart, haven't 
you? 

Claudia. (Leans eagerly across table. Clasping 
her hands and sighing) Yes, Daddy! Can I have 
him ? 

Peyton. You wait a minute. (Pointing finger 
at her and speaking slowly and impressively) Sup- 
pose . . . when you waked up on Christmas morn- 
ing and came in here . . . you found the pony cart 
— and nothing else — then what would you want? 

Claudia. (Putting hands behind head and laugh- 
ing) Daddy . . . I — I reckon I'd want the pony. 

Peyton. (Rises, slapping knee, goes to r. 
Grinning broadly and kicking out his feet as he 
zvalks) There you are! What did I tell you? 
Santa Glaus knows something! He's nobody's 
jack-o-me-lantern! (Turning and speaking seri- 
ously — returns to c. and stands) Now, let's sift 
this thing to the bottom. Who started you to think 
about it? 

Claudia. Puckers. 

Peyton. She did, eh ? What about her ? 

Claudia. (Knitting her brows) Well, last 
Chris'mus she hung up her stockin' . . . and after 
she had wrote 

Peyton. (Correcting her) Written! 

Claudia. Written letters to Santa Claus and 
hollered up the chimney and prayed God for a ring 
and five boxes of candy and a red flannel petticoat 
— what do you think she found in her stockin' ? 

Peyton. What ? 

Claudia. (Slowly, with indignation and dis" 
gust) Not — a-bloomin* thing! 

Peyton. (Striving to suppress a laugh) Well 
. . that was rather rough on poor little Phoebe. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 41 

(Thoughtfully) Humph! . . (Leans against table 
c.) Maybe she didn't pray hard enough. 

Claudia. But she did, though. She— she prayed 
like thunder! 

Peyton. (Aside) Another hickory-nut for 
youthful faith to crack a tooth on — (Moves from 
table after pause. Turning) Well, Piggy, I'll tell 
you what we'll do. (Crosses to mantel l.) You 
tell Puckers to hang her stockings here — (Touches 
mantel) by yours — and perhaps — I say perhaps 

Claudia. (Going towards him) And will Santa 
Claus really put something in? 

Peyton. Haven't a doubt of it. Fact is, I'll 
speak to him myself. 

Claudia. (Running to him) Oh, Daddy . . . 
you're awful good ! 

Peyton. (Swings her to standing position on 
chair l., reprovingly) Claudia! . . you mustn't 
say awful good. It isn't correct. 

Claudia. (Stretching up her arms to him) I 
know it isn't. Daddy. . . But it's true. (Arms 
about his neck) 

(Peyton picks her up in his arms and kisses her. 
Enter Runion with a card tray and an air of 
pompous dignity.) 

Peyton. (Glancing toward card tray) Well, 
Runion? (Crosses to c.) Who is it? 

(Claudia jumps down, picks up pan and brush and 
exits door up c.) 

Runion. (Closing his eyes and rolling the name 
with unctuous enjoyment) Sir John Bollin'brook 
Rodney, sir — Earl of 'Untin'ton! 

Peyton. The Earl of Huntington, eh? (Takes 
card) Well — tell Jack to trot along up. 

Runion. (Aghast) Trot, sir? The Earl of 
'Untin'ton trot? 



42 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Peyton. (Moves l. — Taking card) Um — h'm! 

(RuNioN, with an air of outraged dignity, retires 
slozvly to R., glancing over his shoulder at Pey- 
ton, and exits.) 

Peyton. (Stands with back to fire reading card. 
Looking at the card in amusement) Earl of 
*Untin'ton ! Ha, he, ha, ha ! The idea of Jack's 
sending up his card. Ha, ha, ha, ha ! Ridiculous ! 

RuNioN. (From doorway, pompously) The 
Earl of 'Untin'ton! 

(Enter Jack Rodney in immaculate morning dress, 
monocle, etc. He advances slowly, speaking 
with a refined drawl.) 

Jack. A — h! Are you there, old chap? 

Peyton. (Crossing to c and extending his hand 
warmly) Hello! Come in. Glad to see you. 

Jack. Er — thank you. Glad to see you, Billy! 

Peyton. (Hands box from table) Have a 
cigar? 

Jack. Thank you — n-e-o ! 

Peyton. Have a drink? 

Jack. Thank you — n-e-o! 

Peyton. (Motions to arm-chair r. of table. 
Laughing) Well, have an inexpensive seat. 

Jack. Thank you — y-e-s ! (Seating himself de- 
liberately, arranging his coat-tails and adjusting the 
knees of his trousers) Fact is, dear boy . . . have 
come to awsk ... a favar. 

Peyton. (Dropping into chair l. of table c.) 
All right. Blaze away! 

Jack. Huh ? 

Peyton. Heave ahead ! 

Jack. What ? 

Peyton. What's the row? 

Jack. Oh! I see what you mean. Fact is, dear 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 43 

boy . . . have an ordah .... for a painting . . . 
from a church. Rum go . . . having an ordah 
, . . from a church. . . Isn't it? 

Peyton. {Lights a cigar. Puffing his cigar) 
Yes. It would be still more rummy, though, if you 
had it from a saloon. 

Jack. {Blankly) Er — beg pardon? 

Peyton. {Laughing) Nothing, Jack, I reckon 
that one's too deep for you. Well — the favor? 

Jack. Am looking for a model . . . for the 
painting. 

Peyton. Oh, I see! And so you want to paint 
me, do you? Good! 

Jack. Ygu! {Disgustedly) N-e-o ! Theideah! 
Ha, ha! Absurd! Fancy you ... in a church. 
Ha, ha! 

Peyton. {Laughing) Then, suppose you take 
Runion. He's solemn enough, Goodness knows. 

Jack. Runion ! Rot ! Er — Billy . . . how do 
you Americans express it . . . when a chap is a 
sort of idiot — some beastly nonsense about — er — a 
trolley. 

Peyton. Trolley? 

Jack. Off something or other. 

(Peyton smiles, thinks for a moment, then turns 
again with a twinkle in his eye.) 

Peyton, Oh, I see, then what would you say to 
Puckers? Valkyrie entering upon the wings of 
storm — coalscuttle in foreground — woe and devas- 
tation trailing after — action — spirit — tone 

Jack. {Raising his hands as though he were 
warding off a blozv) Oh, I say, Billy — don't ! Fact 
is, dear boy ... I want that little girl of yours. 
Jolly little beggar ! Ha, ha ! 

Peyton. Claudia? Why, Jack! I — I appreci- 
ate it, and will be delighted. 

Jack. Er — thank you. 



44 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Peyton. That is — of course — if the sittings are 
aot too long. I wouldn't like to tire her, you know. 

Jack. Only want her ... for harf an hour 
. . . three days. 

Peyton. Good! It will please the child vastly. 
(Rises to L. c.) And I know you will do the pic- 
ture well. Urn — what about her clothes and things ? 

Jack. Very simple. . . Nothing. . . She's a 
cherub. 

Peyton. (Starting) The nude! (After slight 
pause) That — that alters it — of course. (Puts 
down cigar in ash tray) I thought you wished to 
paint her — er — otherwise. However, it is quite 
out of the question — quite out of the question. 
(Goes down l.) 

|ack. (Rises, laughing. Stands looking at Pey- 
ton) Oh, I say, Billy. What an extrawd'n'ry 
chap you are! All this fuss . . . over ... a 
baby's petticoat. Ha, ha! What would it matter? 

Peyton. It matters everything — everything! 

Jack. (Shrugging) But, she's not your child. 
. . . She's only a 

Peyton. (Wheeling sharply) She's my life — 
my heart — my soul ! (As Jack rises, backing away 
in astonishment, Peyton speaks in a calmer tone) 
Come, man, don't let our friendship split on such 
a little rock as this. 

Jack. (Crosses quickly. Taking hand, holding 
it and speaking slozvly) Billy, old fellar . . . I'm 
quite old enough. . . to have known better. . . 
Forgive me. . . . I'm an ass ! 

Peyton, (Laying his other hand on Jack's as 
they shake) It's all right. Now, sit down and have 
a smoke. 

Jack. Thank you — n-e-o ! 

Peyton. Why not ? You haven't a thing in the 
world to do. 

Jack. Must find a model . . . for the painting. 
(Crossing to door) Drop in, old chap, and give me 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 45 

the benefit ... of your advice. . . (Smoothing his 
silk hat with his sleeves) By the way, Billy — saw- 
something in a Christmas shop to-day. . . Think 
it would please . . , your little girl. (At door he 
turns with a beaming smile) Rum go . . . having 
an ordah , . . from a church. . . Isn't it? {Exit) 

Peyton. {Calling after him) Good-bye, Jack! 
Come again — often! 

Jack. {Outside) Thanks! 

Peyton. (Slowly pacing up and down with his 
eyes on the floor) He didn't think . . . the dear 
old idiot. . . . (Stands r. c, looking at door r.) I 
reckon he didn't think. (Claudia enters from 
right, at '* Thanks," carrying a folded note in her 
hand. She crosses to fire-place, places the note in a 
pair of tongs and pushes it up the chimney. Pey- 
ton turns, leans down to see zvhat she is doing, etc. 
Watching her) What are you doing, little woman? 
Taking another whack at that pony? (Over l. c.) 
If I were you, I wouldn't set my heart on him too 
much. I'm afraid he won't come this Christmas. 

Claudia, (l., with her hack to the fire) I 
wasn't askin' for the pony, Daddy. I was just 
writin' about the reins and the whip that — that 
come with him. 

Peyton. (Smiling) Yes, I see. Delicate little 
feminine hint for the balance of the outfit. (Shak- 
ing head) But, it won't do, Claudia; it won't do. 

(Enter Run ion with card tray.) 

Runion. (Crosses to table c, stands r. of it) 
Beg pardon, sir — a despatch. Jus' come, sir — 
charges paid. 

Peyton, (l. of table, reaches across — taking the 
telegram) Thank you, Runion. You needn't wait. 

RuNioN. Very good, sir. (He glances longingly 
at the envelope and exits lingeringly) 

Peyton. (Opening telegram with his pencil) 
We can't have everything we want, Piggy — I knew 



46 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

a little girl once — nice little girl she was, too — who 
wanted — {He glances at the contents of the tele- 
gram, gasps. Reads again, crushes it in his hand 
and cries out in ecstasy) Piggy .... Oh, Piggy, 
Piggy, who do you think is coming? 

Claudia. The pony? 

Peyton. (Stands l. c. Joyously) No, darling, 
no! ... . Princess Alice! {Seizing Claudia and 
tossing her up in the air) Think of it! She's 
coming ! Here ! To us ! To you . . . and to me ! 
{Showing telegram. Taking Claudia's hands, 
dancing up and down, laughing boyishly. Claudia 
does so reluctantly) And just at Christmas time, 
too ! Lordy ! Think of that ! What did I tell you 
about the jolly-go-bang we were going to have? It 
will be bigger now . . . for Alice will be with us! 
Alice! {Crosses to Yi. c. Starting. Taking out his 
watch) You stay here and keep house for me. 
Get my hat ! Get my hat ! {As Claudia retires at 
rear c, he calls) Runion! Oh, I say, Runion! 
Runion ! 

Runion. {Entering r. hurriedly) Anything 
wrong, sir? 

Peyton. {Laughing joyously) Wrong? Not 
much! It's right! {Slaps him on l. shoulder. 
Laughs again as Runion stares at him) There'll 
be a lady here presently, and 

Pv.union. a lady, sir? 

Peyton. Now, don't look at me as if you never 
heard of a lady before in all your born days ! Yes 
a lady! My lady! She's going to be my wife 
Runion . . . my wife! 

Runion. O — h ! 

•(Claudia returns from c. zvith the hat and stick 
ivhich she hands to Peyton, then without a 
zvord she crosses to the ottoman, at table c, 
seats herself, with her elbozvs on her knees, 
her chin upon her hands.) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 47 

Peyton. {To Runkon) She'll dine with us to- 
night, of course, and I just want you to spread 
yourself. Have a dinner that — that will make us 
sit up. Understand? 

RuNiON. Very good, sin 

Peyton. That's it — exactly! I want it very 
good. {Clapping his hat on the hack of his head, 
and looking at his watch) Here — take the money 
and get what you need. {Gives gold piece) 
Never mind the cost — and — and keep the change ! 

RuNioN. {Bowing and scraping) Oh, thank 
you, sir — thank you very much, sir — I — {Starts 
to exit door r.) 

Peyton. {Snapping his watch. Turning and 
calling loudly as Runion reaches the door) And, 
ch, I say, Runion — for the Lord's sake — don't for- 
get — the soup! 

Runion. {Bowing rapidly) No, sir, I won't 
forget it, sir — hoxtail, sir — very good, sir — thank 
you, sir — {Exit door r.) hoxtail. 

Peyton. {Turning to Claudia happily. Kisses 
her) Now, dear, I'm off to meet the Princess. 
Good-bye! . . {She sits on hassock. At the door 
he turns) Oh, I say . . . Piggy! Perhaps . . . 
we can think about that pony, after all. 

Claudia. {Looking at the floor and speaking 
with a quivering lip) I — I don't want the old pony 
now — I 

Peyton. {Comes to R. c. Starting and coming 
tozvard her rapidly) Why, Claudia! What's the 
matter, child? 

Claudia. {Rising and running toward him) 
Oh, Daddy, Daddy, you love her more than me ! 
{Stretching up her arms to him, sobbing) Oh, 
Daddy, don't — don't love Princess Alice more than 
me! 

(Peyton kneels beside her, takes her in his arms, 
speaking tenderly, earnestly. After short em- 
brace, she turns her face aside sullenly.) 



48 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Peyton. Claudia, listen to me. . . Give me your 
hand. . . There ! . . Now, look me in the face. . , 
Daddy loves you better than anything else in all the 
world. He loves you . . . and nothing, nothing,. 
. . . shall ever come between us. {She throws her 
arms about his neck again) He loves Princess 
Alice, too . . . but it's a different kind of love. 
(As Claudia looks up inquiringly) You wouldn't 
understand it, dear; but you will when you are 
older. 

Claudia. (Sobbing) But — but, I want to un- 
derstand it now. 

Peyton. (Thinking a moment) . . . Don't you 
love Uncle Jack Rodney? (She nods) — the jolly 
Earl who used to ride you on his foot, and bring 
you pockets full of candy? 

Claudia. Yes-s. 

Peyton. All right. Now, think! Do you love 
Daddy any less, just because you are so devoted ta 
Uncle Jack ? 

Claudia. N-no. 

Peyton. (Smiling) Well, there you are ! Don't 
you see it's different? Come now — dry your eyes 
and work it out by yourself. (Rising. Claudia 
crosses to l. c.) Ah, here's the idea! Take this 
pencil and paper. (At table c.) and write a letter to 
Santa Claus for poor little Phoebe Puckers. She 
hasn't any Daddy, and not the very first sign of an 
Uncle Jack. Think of that! 

Claudia. (With a half sob) All right. Daddy. 
Good-bye. (Runs up to him for a kiss) 

Peyton. Good-bye, Piggy. (He kisses her ten- 
derly, crosses to door, turns back to smile, and exitsQ 

(Claudia kneels in chair beside the table, and writes 
in silence, her breath catching occasionally ivith 
a dry sob.) 

Claudia. (Pausing) I wish — I wish she wasn't 
coming, though. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 49 

(Again she writes in silence. Enter Runion, with 
a bucket of water and a large rag. He sighs 
dejectedly, shakes his head and begins slowly 
to wash the window sashes, etc. Apron tied 
high under arms.) 

(Looking up) Runion, how do you spell Phoebe? 

Runion. Why, I spells it with a F, Miss — that 
bein' the letter as was made for it. 

Claudia. (Doubtfully) Do you? I — I thought 
Daddy said it was a P. 

Runion. (Smiling indulgently and standing with 
the rag in his hand) Did you now? Well, well, 
well! It do take time for a young'un to learn all 
twenty-six of the alphabets, an' that's a fack. Now, 
a P is good enough to spell potato with, an' even a 
Puckers, at a pinch — but for foxes and Feeby's an' 
fools an' things like that, I allers uses a F, Miss. 
It comes more 'andy. 

Claudia. (Simply) Thank you. (Claudia 
returns to her writing, Runion, zvith a sigh, begins 
to wash the window, when Claudia once more 
looks up) Runion ... do you believe in Santa 
Claus ? 

Runion. (Working away) Me? W'y, Lor' 
love ye, I know 'im personal. 

Claudia. Do you? I wish I did. Think you'll 
have anything in your stocking Christmas? 

Runion. (Stops work and turns) Yes'm. I 
will that, an' no mistake. 

Claudia. What ? 

Runion. (Grinning) My foot. 

Claudia. (Climbing slowly out of the chair, 
with her paper and pencil in hand, and regarding 
Runion with deep indignation) Runion ... I 
wish Daddy hadn't told me not to call you a dun- 
derhead. 

Runion. (Still grinning) An* may I awsk, miss 
— w'y? 



50 THE PRINCE CHAR 

Claudia, (r. of table) 'Cause, if he hadn't told 
me not to, I'd — I'd call you it — that's why ! 

(NOISE: Puckers falling up stairs. H'o God! 
H'o God! RuNioN looks at door — nothing ap- 
pears. He resumes work. Claudia lifts her 
chin and marches up c, scornfully, out of the 
room, while Runion, whistling merrily, re- 
turns to his window washing. Presently Puck- 
ers enters very quietly from r. In one hand 
she holds a torn paper hag, mid on the wide- 
spread fingers of the other, she carries several 
egg shells, the yolky part trickling down her 
wrist. She coughs to attract Runion's atten- 
tion. ) 

Puckers. (Stands r. c.) 'Ere's the eggs wot 
the grocer man brought, Mr. Runion! (As Run- 
ion stares at her in dumb horror) I — I fell hup the 
steps, sir, but I didn't broke but only three. Lucky 
. . . hain't it? 

Runion. (Crossing to her, taking away the 
hag, and regarding Pucker long and earnestly) 
Phoebe Puckers ... if somebody was to put you 
in a hag . . . an' tie you up with ropes of iron an' 
ropes of steel . . . blarst me ... if you wouldn't 
tumble me out an' bust somethink. 

Puckers. Yes, sir. Does yer want the shells? 

Runion. (Sharply) No, I don't, I — (She re- 
moves them ) An' look a 'ere ! The first thing you 
have got to do is to wash them gormy 'ands an* 
w'en yu gets that done, you got to wash this winder, 
w'ilst I goes down to interview that ijjit of a grocer 
man for a trustin' you with anything softer than 
a cobble stone or a brick ! (Runion holds her zvith 
a severe eye a moment then exits c. with hag. 
Puckers crosses to the bucket and wipes her hand 
on the window rag) 

Puckers. (Singing) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 51 

*Umpty Dumpty *e set on a wall, 

'An 'Umpty Dumpty 'e come down — kerflop! 

{She hurls the rag into the bucket, takes it out again 
and begins smearing the window panes, hum- 
ming to herself joyfully. Claudia enters from 
rear with her pencil and the folded note. She 
sees Puckers, puts the note behind her and 
tips tozvard the fire-place, where she is about 
to poke the note up the chimney when Runion 
enters from rear. He stares at Puckers' work, 
in amazement . He clenches his hands, tips to 
a corner r., taking up a slender stick which he 
feels as he moves cautiously toward Puckers. 
Puckers spies him over her shoidder, drops 
the rag and exits precipitately at R. Claudia 
runs forzvard, intercepting Runion.) 

Claudia. Runion ! Were you going to — to whip 
poor little Puckers ? 

Runion. {Eyeing the stick in some confusion) 
Me, miss ? Er — well, no, miss ; I didn't 'ave no 
such intentions, though she do need a warmin', an' 
no mistake. 

Claudia. But — but you were going after her 
with a stick. 

Runion. A stick? Um — er — {With a sudden 
smile) W'y, Lor' love ye, miss, this 'ere's my win- 
der washer. {He fastens the rag on the end of the 
stick and begins to wipe the window) 

Claudia. Oh ! 

{She crosses again to the fire-place, while Runion, 
when her back is turned, discards the rag, and 
with the stick in his hand, rolls up his sleeves 
and follows Puckers. KNOCK at door — • 
Claudia runs and opens it. Enter Alice Trav- 

ERS.) 

Claudia. How do you do? 



52 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Alice. {In doorway, after regarding Claudia 
in silence) Is this Mr. Peyton's studio? 

Claudia. Yes. Daddy is away. (Moves to c. 
behind chair r. of table) But — but Fll talk to you 
till he gets back. (Places chair) I always do that. 

Alice. (Comes a step into room) Ah, I see, 
you are Claudia. (As Claudia nods) When do 
you expect your father home? 

Claudia. (Shaking her head) I don't know. 
He's gone to meet a Princess. Princess Alice. 
(Alice winces, turns away and begins tapping the 
floor with her foot) Won't you sit down? (Moves 
arm-chair to proper angle) 

Alice. ( Crosses to the chair and sits as Claudia 
closes door. Sinking into chair) Why does your 
Daddy call her Princess Alice? 

Claudia. (Returning to R. c.) Oh, it's a story 
about her. 

Alice. Is it? Won't yo-' tell it to me, Claudia? 

Claudia. (Stands r. of Alice. Climbing into 
a chair opposite Alice) Yes ; but I can't tell it like 
Daddy can. (After short pause) Once upon a 
time there was a Prince Chap . . and he lived in a 
big city named New York . . . and he didn't have 
any money . . and he was poor. He made little 
figures out of clay with his hands — like Daddy does 
— but the people wouldn't buy 'em, and — and it hurt 
the Prince Chap. . . And then he met a Princess 
. . . but he couldn't stay where she lived — er — 
'cause he was poor. So he went away to seek his 
fortune . . . and Princess Alice she cried and cried 
'cause she couldn't go with him, too . . . and then 
he got on a big ship and sailed for miles and miles 
and miles . . . till he came to another place. . . 
And now he's still makin' his little figures out of 
clay . . . and hopin' to get back home again. And 
we pray for him — Daddy and me. 

Alice. (Wiping her eyes as Claudia pauses, 
and speaking gently) Yes, Claudia — ^go on. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 53 

Claudia. That's all. Daddy says the story isn't 
finished yet. ( Goes up c. ) 

Alice. (Turning her head away and speaking 
half in an aside) He's right. (Slowly) The story 
isn't finished yet — (After a pause, turning abruptly) 
Did your father teach you this? 

Claudia. (Comes down L. of table. In some 
astonishment at her manner) No. I — I just 
learned it when — when he would tell me. Mamma 
used to tell me stories, but — but when she went 
away — er — Daddy told 'em to me. (At l. corner 
of table) 

Alice. {Quickly) Oh! and your mamma used 
to live here? 

Claudia. {Puz:;led, answering slowly) I — I 
don't know. I was little, then. 

Alice. Try to remember, Claudia. Your 
mamma brought you here, or 

Claudia. (Quickly) Yes. (Pointing to room 
at rear) She was ill — in there . . . and Daddy 
made her go away to a place where she could rest 
. . . and her cough wouldn't hurt her any more. 

Alice. (Speaking with suppressed excitement) 
Yes, yes, and then ? 

Claudia. (Sitting slowly on bench) And then 
God got sorry for her, and — and took her home 
with him. Daddy told me so, and he was sorry, too. 

(Alice rises and stands in silence, looking down at 
Claudia, then she slowly crosses to window 
and stands idly gazing out. Claudia watches 
her in puzzled wonder. She starts several 
times to speak, and is silent.) 

Alice. (Comes down r. of table. Turns sud- 
denly) And do you know who I am? (As 
Claudia shakes her head, Alice sits on bench with 
Claudia) I want you to tell me .... a /o^ of 
things. / am Alice — the Princess Alice who 



54 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Claudia. (On bench with Alice — gazing at her 
in joy) You? Oh! (Claudia, outstretched arms 
to kiss Alice) 

Alice. There, there 

Claudia. Don't you kiss people when you're 
glad to see them? 



Alice. Of course — but- 



Claudia. (Shaking her head) Oh, no. You 
are not the Princess Alice 

Alice. But I am. Why do you think I'm not? 

Claudia. (Backing away distrustfully) Our 
Princess Alice loves me, and — (Her voice breaking) 
and you .... don't. 

Alice. (Nervously) There, child, you don't 
understand — you 

(Peyton is heard to call outside.) 

Peyton. Runion ! Runion ! 

(As he enters from r. Alice has turned to the win- 
dow L., quickly, on hearing Peyton's voice, 
and Peyton does not see her on entering.) 

Claudia. (Crosses quickly to door r.) Daddy 
. , . . Princess Alice has come! 

Peyton. (Starting, turning and seeing Alice) 
Alice! (She comes c. He runs forward, placing 
his arms about her and kissing her) You dear! 

(Runion looks on in open-mouthed astonishment, 
Claudia, doivn r., coldly.) 

Alice. (Releasing herself in confusion. Comes 
down L. of table c.) Why, Will! You — you are 
such a boy ! Really ! 

Peyton. (Coming down r. of table. Stepping 
backzvard, a note of disappointment in his tone) 
But, aren't — aren't you glad to see me? 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 55 

Alice. Yes, yes — of course — but — {Waving her 
hand in the direction of Runion) — we are not 
alone, Will. 

Peyton. {Laughing) Oh, I see ! But five 3^ears 
is a long- time to wait, dear. (Turning) You may 
go, Runion. Let me know when dinner is served. 
(To Alice) We have waited dinner for you, and 
Claudia is going to sit up in honor of the occasion ! 

(Exit Runion.) 

Alice. (c, in front of the table) Dinner? 
Well, Will, I — I fear it will be quite impossible. 
You see I am staying with Helen — Cousin Helen, 
you know — and of course I could hardly remain 
away the first evening. (Pause) I am to dine 
there to-morrow, and — Don't be unreasonable, I 
will come the day after, perhaps, or — or the next 
day. 

Peyton. (Dejectedly) Yes — I see. 

Alice. (With an effort at brightness) But, you 
haven't ^sked me v/hy I came. (Sits in chair l. of 
table. Speaking rapidly) Cousin Helen offered me 
the trip — to spend the holidays with her. She sent 
me the money. Wasn't it good of her? I barely 
had time to tumble a few things into my trunk and 
catch the steamer. I didn't even have time to write 
to you. 

Peyton. (Slozvly, dejectedly) No — it seems 
not. (Pause) You came alone? 

Alice. (Still seated. Slightly confused) Well, 
no — that is — not exactly. There were quite a num- 
ber of pleasant people on board, and — (Pausing, 
then speaking zvith a shade of defiance) Besides, 
there was Mr. Helmer. 

Peyton. (Looking up quickly) Helmer! Who 
is he? 

Alice. A very dear friend of mine — and moth- 



56 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

er's. He — he lives in New York. I have known 
him ever so long, and we happened to cross on the 
same steamer. 

Peyton. (Nodding) I see. {Reflectively} 
Helmerl . . I don't remember your having men- 
tioned him in your letters. (After marked silence) 
Money ? 

Alice. (Rises. Resentfully) That's most un- 
kind of you, Will. 

Peyton, (r. c.) I didn't mean it so. . . . Well? 

Alice. (Strolling down l.) Well, at any rate, 
suppose we change the subject. I wired you last 
evening from Liverpool. (Turns) But we 
changed our plans and came on an earlier train — 
the express. You received my message, of course. 

Peyton. (Slowly) Yes, I received it . . . half 
an hour ago. (He takes the crumpled paper from 
his pocket) It must have been . . . delayed. 

Alice. (Biting her lips) Why, how odd! Oh, 
well, it doesn't matter now. (Moves to c.) I will 
be in London for perhaps two weeks. You — ^you 
have Cousin Helen's address? You were always a 
favorite with her, I believe. 

Peyton. (Crosses to c.) Alice! . . While my 
servant was present, there was some excuse; but 
now — when we're alone 

Alice. You forget Claudia. 

Peyton. (Starting) Oh! Oh, yes — of course f 
(He steps to Claudia, who has been watching si- 
lently, smiles faintly and puts his hand tenderly on 
her head) Run along now, Piggy, like a good 
little girl, Daddy will call you presently. (Claudia, 
without a zvord, walks slowly up centre and exits. 
Peyton comes to r. of table. Coming toward 
Alice with his hands outstretched) Come now, 
sweetheart. . . (Alice sits l. of table r., as if to 
prevent any embrace) what is it? Tell me. . . Be 
open . . and square ... as you were in the old 
days. (She allows her hand to remain in his, but 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 57 

turns her head away. Peyton leans against the 
table) Don't you know I have loved you — longed 
for you — every day — every hour . . . since I saw 
you standing on the pier . . and lost you in the 
mist? . . . {Still she is silent) If only you knew 
how we have talked and dreamed of you — Claudia 
and I — how we built our castles around the Princess 
^our Princess AHce . . . who was waiting till 
'we came. 

Alice. {Releasing her hand) Yes — ^but 
Claudia! 

Peyton. {In wonder) Claudia? What of her? 

Alice. The words you spoke to her here — just 
now? 

Peyton. {More mystified) What were they? 

Alice. {Slowly) Daddy . . . will call you . . 
presently. What did they mean ? 

Peyton. {With a puzzled frown) Mean? . . . 
Why — that I would call her presently — after — — 

Alice. {Rising and facing him. Sharply) Yes, 
yes — but — but — Daddy ! 

Peyton. (Looking in her face, then speaking 
reproachfully) Alice! {Steps hack in astonish- 
ment. He turns, hows his head and slowly crosses 
the room. Alice watches him, with her lips com- 
pressed) 

Alice. {Quickly) Some ugly stories have 
reached me, Will ; stories of you . . . and Claudia's 
mother. I tried to close my ears to them -at first. 
She was a model, I believe. {He nods) You 
helped her . . . with food — money 

Peyton. {Quietly) Yes, Alice, I helped her 
... I did more ... I buried her. {Pause in 
which hoth are silent) I wrote you about it at 
the time — the woman's pitiful marriage and her 
death. I told you how Claudia came, and how, 
when first her baby lips had lisped your name, I 
loved her . . for your sake, Alice . . . and for 



58 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

her's. (Coming to Alice's side) Do you doubt 
me? 

Alice. (Looking into his face and speaking 
coldly) Yes, Will ... I doubt you. (Peyton 
starts, opens his lips to speak, then turns silently 
away — up r.) You have said she was not your 
own 

Peyton. (Turns from up r.) What more do 
you ask. 

Alice. Proof! (Takes a step to r.) 

Peyton. I will give you any proof you wish. 

Alice. Then send the child away. 

Peyton. (Sharply, then pitifully) Send Claudia 
away? My little Claudia — why — surely you don't 
mean that? 

Alice. I meant it, Will — the proof of your 
honor — the proof of your love for me. 

Peyton. (Lifting his head) No! Never! 

Alice. Not even for me? 

Peyton. Not even . . . for you ! 

Alice. You had best think it over, Will. 

Peyton. (Calmly) It needs no thought. If a 
gift from God is mine . . then she is mine ... it 
needs no thought. 

(Alice crosses to door, pauses, takes up her purse 
gloves from, the table, and crosses to R.) 



Peyton. (Intercepting her and speaking in a 
hoarse whisper) You will leave me, then — like 
this ! 

Alice. Yes, I'm going. 

(She pauses as if relenting, when once more Pey- 
ton steps forward, but she changes her mind 
szviftly. She passes out, leaving Peyton star- 
ing dumbly after her. After a moment 
Claudia enters and crosses to Peyton's side.) 

Claudia. Has she gone, Daddy? 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 59 

Peyton. {Feeling for her hand and gazing va- 
cantly at the open door) Yes, dear . . . she's 
gone. . . . 

Claudia. But, she'll come back . . . won't she, 
Daddy ? 

Peyton. I hope so, darling ... I hope so. 

Claudia. {Looking up at him) Em not sorry, 
Daddy, — it's nicer to have you — just by yourself. 

CURTAIN ON SCENE FIRST. 

Scene H : — Christmas Eve night, four days after 
Scene First. The room is as before, with the 
exception of lights which are burning, and a 
row of stockings hung at the fire-place. 
Claudia is seated in the middle of the table, 
tying up a large package, other packages and 
loose papers being scattered about her. Run- 
ion stands at her side holding a large pair of 
scissors and a ball of string. 

Claudia. {Working in silence at the bundle, 
ptdling and turning it several ways, then pausing and 
looking at it disgustedly) Won't you help me with 
this string, Runion? Every time I think Eve got it 
tied, it — it just slips! 

Runion. To be sure, miss. You got to tie a 
'orse knot, like they does in the army. 

Claudia- A horse knot? How do you do that? 

Runion. {Taking bundle and string, demon- 
strating) This a-way. Now, 'ere's your lead-strap 
— so. Then you 'oobles your 'orse, 'iches 'is 
'eels to 'is 'ead, an' presto, the more 'e kicks the 
tighter 'e ties hisself. {Knotting string) There 
you are. Couldn't get away if 'e tried. {Regard- 
ing bundle solemnly) Er— wot you got in it, Miss 
Claudia ? 

Claudia. It's the secret for Daddy; but you 
won't tell him, will you? 



6o THE PRINCE CHAP. 

RuNioN. Me? W'y, Lor' love ye, miss, I 
wouldn't let on, no not if 'e pulls me teeth out, an' 
— an' throws 'em away. 

Claudia. And do you think he'll like it? 

RuNioN- Like it! Jus' listen at that now! 
W'y — {He pauses, listening, with his scissors ele- 
vated in the air) 

(Peyton enters from r. Claudia throws herself 
across package, covering it with her arms. ) 

Claudia. Don't look, Daddy. Don't you look. 

Peyton. {Dejectedly, as he crosses to easy- 
chair, removes his coat which Runion takes, and 
sinks despondently into seat) All right — all right 
— I won't, dear — not a peep. 

Claudia. {After despositing bundle in corner 
carefully and coming back to other bundles on 
table) Did you see Princess Alice, Daddy? 

Peyton. {Sadly) No, Piggy. . . She had gone 
out. 

Claudia. Who did she go with? 

Peyton. Mr. Helmer. {To himself, bitterly) 
Mister Helmer! {He sits in silence. Claudia 
comes to his side, laying her cheek against his 
shoulder) 

Claudia. I'm glad you came home. It's — it's 
lonesome when you don't come home. 

Peyton. {With a caress and a forced smile) 
If you're glad, then I'm glad. It's so calm and 
peaceful here. {A wail of grief is heard outside) 
Puckers ! 

{The cries grow nearer- Claudia runs to door at 
R. and opens it, as Puckers bursts in. She 
drops her shawl, sinks on the floor r. c, buries 
her head in her arms and sobs bitterly.) 

Claudia. {At door) Oh, what's the matter— 
what is the matter ? 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 6i 

RuNiON. (At back c.) The high-sterlcks, sir, 
and no mistake ! 

Peyton. (Crossing and raising Puckers to her 
feet) Come now, Puckers, what's the trouble? 
You are not hurt, are you? 

Puckers. N-n-n-n-o, sir. (Wails) 

Peyton. Well, then, what is it? No nonsense! 
Come now! 

Puckers- (Accompanying her narrative with 
sobs and gasps) I 'ad four sivpences wot Mr. Bal- 
lin'ton give me, 'cause 'e said as 'ow 'is 'eart 'urt 'im 
for a-throwin' me down stairs — (Sobs) 

Peyton. Well, w^/1 — go on. 

Puckers. An' I went hout for to buy some 
Chris-mus fixin's, and I didn't 'ave no pockets . . . 
and me 'ands was cold . . . an' I put me money in 
me mouth — (More zvails) 

Peyton. Yes, yes ; you put your money in your 
mouth. Well, what then? 

Puckers- They was nice new sixpences, Mr. 
Peyton, sir . . . an' — an* I seen somethink in the 
winder .... an' I went to say O — h! an' — an' — 
an' I swallered 'em! 

(Runion laughs, Peyton smiles, Clavdi Ay sympa- 
thetic look as Puckers wails afresh.) 

Peyton. What! You swallowed your six- 
pences? All of 'em? 

Puckers. Yes, sir; hevery bloomin' one! An' 
they went down suddint, sir, like rats when you 
'oiler at 'em ! 

Claudia. Are they way down in the inside of 
you now, Puckers? 

RuNioN- (Steps forward, as Puckers nods 
miserably) Awskin' yer pardon, sir, if we was to 
stand her on her head and jounce 'er same as a 
money bank, w'y 

Peyton. Runion! Be careful! 



(,2 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

RuNioN. {Steps hack) Yes, sir. I'll be care- 
ful, sir. {Makes a motion as though to take hold 
of her. She shrinks back, crying in fear) 

Peyton. {Taking Puckers' chin in his hand and 
regarding her earnestly) H'u'mj I'm afraid 
they've gone, Puckers. I'm afraid they've gone. 

RuNioN. I knowed a butler wunst — big strappin' 
feller 'e was, too — wot bolted a brass farthin', 
an' — {Solemnly) An' it gangreened 'im ! 

(Puckers hozvls afresh.) 

Peyton. {As Puckers begins to sob) Rmiion f 

RuNioN. Yes, sir. 'E done it w'ilst a-makin' 
change. 

Peyton. {Striving to comfort her) There — 
they won't hurt you, my dear — {She looks up sud- 
denly) upon my word, they won't. {Taking money 
from his pocket) Here's a nice little shilling for 
you. Now, run along and don't worry any more. 
{Goes to fire-place and gazes into fire) 

Puckers. {In delight) Ho, thank yer, sir! 
{She puts the shilling unhlushingly into a hole in 
the side of her stocking and begins to speak ex- 
citedly) Them winders was jus' fine! I seen 
dolls an' cats an' animals an' everythink. I seen 
a little red man all made houter tin, wot, w'en yer 
wind 'im hip with a key, 'e dances all aroun' {Pi- 
rouettes about) on 'is 'ead an' 'is 'ands, a-wavin' 
of 'is 'eels on 'igh. 

Claudia- {Breathlessly) Oh, did you? 

Peyton. {Interrupting Puckers and Claudia) 
Here, here, here. Now, vamoose! both of you. 
{Seating himself at fire-place l.) Seems to me I 
heard sleigh-bells a while ago. Think what an 
awful thing it v/ould be if Old Santa came around 
and found you sitting up. 

Claudia. {Crossing to his chair) Did — did 
you see the reindeers? 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 63 

Peyton. (Down l.) No, but I think I heard 
'em snort. Better scuttle along for he may be here 
any minute. 

Puckers. (Moves to c. in front of table) Ho, 
Lud ! 'E might be a-skimmin' down that chimney 
right now. 

Claudia, (r. of Peyton, who is seated. Glanc- 
ing at the fire-place and hack to Peyton) And 
will you come to tell me good-night . . . and hear 
my prayers? 

Peyton. Yes, in ten minutes. (He kisses her) 
Hurry now ! Puckers, be off with you! (Puckers 
lingers, locking her fingers across her head and 
swinging one foot bashfully) Well? 

Puckers. I — I wish't I 'ad somebody kiss me 
good-night. I don't believe nobody done it yet, sir. 

Peyton. (With a smile) Is that really true? 

Puckers. Yes, sir. Ain't 'ad a smack — no, not 
sence I was a crawler, sir! 

Peyton. (With hack to fire. After sitting a 
moment in thought, regarding Puckers) Claudia! 
... Go get me a towel with a wet end. 

(Claudia gets towel as requested, from Runion. 
RuNioN at hack r., looks on in silent, open- 
mouthed wonder.) 

Puckers. Wot — wot you goin' to do, sir? 

(Peyton makes no answer, but takes towel from 
Claudia, crosses to c, then he seizes Puckers 
and begins polishing her cheek with the wet 
end of the tozvel.) 

RuNioN. (After Peyton kisses Puckers' 
cheek) Well! 

Peyton. (After stooping and kissing Puckers* 
cheek) There! Is that all right? 

Puckers. Yes, sir. Er — er — thank you, sir. 



64 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Peyton. (Moves beyond c. to r. With a smile 
and a bow) Don*t mention it. 

Puckers. (Quickly) Ho, no, sir. I won't men- 
tion it to anybody, sir! (She crosses to the door, 
makes sure that her shilling is safe, then turns as 
she is about to depart) Good-night, Miss Claudy. 
'Appy Chris'mus. Good-night, Mr. Runion. Good- 
night, Mr. Peyton, thank yer, sir. You better tell 
Mr. Santa Claus to put a apple in me stockin' first, 
or the nuts an' razins an' things will come a-tum- 
blin' hout of the 'ole in the toe. (She shuts the 
door, then opens it again. Turns at doorway. 
She slams the door R. and disappears. She is heard 
descending the stairs) 

Peyton, (r. c, Runion retreats to rear at l.) 
Now, Piggy, — bed! 

Claudia. (Crossing to c.) You won't look at 
any of the things till mornin', will you? 

Peyton. I? Wouldn't think of it. Hurry up, 
little one. 

Claudia. (Closing the door at rear, then open- 
ing it again — runs to Runion, zvho is up l.) Don't 
you tell, Runion 1 Don't you tell ! 

Runion. (Calling back) No, miss. I won't 
say nothing! (When the door is closed, Runion 
fastens it; he turns to Peyton) Lor' bless her 
'eart, sir ; I 'opes she'll allers be 'appy same as she 
is to-night, sir. I'd give a 'eap to make it that 
a-ways. 

Peyton. Thank you, Runion. I hope so. (Sigh- 
ing and pressing his hands over his eyes — comes to 
c.) Well . . . let's get it over as soon as possible. 
I'm tired . . . and want to go to bed. ( They go 
up stage R., and concealed by a curtain or draping 
bring dozvn small Christmas tree on a wooden 
stand. This they place in the centre of the room, 
then Peyton sinks dejectedly into his chair r. of 
table) Runion . . . we'll leave that thing till last. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 65 

just bring me those stockings, will you . . . and 
put the candy and nuts over here. 

RuNiON. (l.) Very good, sir. {He gets stock- 
ings from mantel and places boxes and bundles on 
the table, beginning to open them) 

Peyton. {Sorting out stockings) Claudia's — 
Puckers {Bus. with Puckers* stocking) poor little 
motherless rat — and — {Holding up a large white 
sock) What's this one, Runion? 

RuNioN. (l. of table. With a foolish grin) 
Awskin' your pardon, sir, — ha, ha — it's mine. Miss 
Claudia hexpressed 'erself as bein' wishful, sir, that 
I, too, should join in the festivities. 

Peyton. {Nodding and smiling sadly) Oh, 
yes, yes — of course. We'll fill 'em all up, Runion — 
and make her day as happy a swe can. (Peyton 
begins filling stocking, pauses in reverie and lets 
his hand fall to his side) 

Runion. Beg pardon, sir, but you're not feelin' 
well to-night. 

Peyton. No, Runion . . . I'm tired — out of 
sorts — and I wish it was all over. Christmas isn't 
what it used to be when you and I were boys. 
There's something gone out of it — broken out of it. 

Runion. {Chewing on a gum drop) Maybe, sir, 
it's jus' because you've growed up, sir. It'll hap- 
pen to all of us, — in time — every mother's son of 
us. {Puts candy into mouth abstractedly) 

Peyton. {Nodding miserably) Maybe so, 
Runion ... I don't know. {KNOCK off r. — door 
knocker) here we go! Something more for 
Claudia, I dare say. Lucky little beggar! {As 
Runion crosses to door r. he speaks with a smile) 
Hope it isn't that pony, Runion. You'll have to 
take him to sleep with you! 

Runion- {Over near door. Aghast) A pony, 
to bed with me, sir? 

Peyton. Don't worry, he won't come till morn- 
ing. You needn't be alarmed. 



66 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Run ION. O — h! (Exits at r.) 

Peyton. (Leaning his chin on his hand) Oh, 
Alice, Alice, how different you could have made 
our Christmas! — and that man Helmer! (He 
pauses) Perhaps when he has gone— (The half- 
filled stocking drops to the floor) Perhaps ! 

RuNioN. (Stands R. c. Entering with two bun- 
dles in his arms) For Miss Claudia, sir — and you,, 

Peyton. (Rises quickly. Puzzled) For me? 
Why, who in the world! — Here, let's see it. (He 
rises and takes the tzvo packages, comes to back of 
the table c, glancing at the address then starts) 
Alice! (With a look of happiness) Why, the dear 
girl ! . . . Flow good of her to think of — of 
Claudia ! 

RuNioN. Shall I put them with the other things, 
sir? 

Peyton. (Handing one package) Yes, just as 
well. 

RuNioN. (Holding out his hand) And that one, 
sir? 

Peyton. (Hesitating) Well — er — well, no, 
Runion. (With a light laugh) Think Fll just — er 
— just keep it over here . . . (Runion crosses to 
back at L.) where I can see it, you know. (Patting 
the box and shaking it) Sounds heavy, Runion! 
Heavy! Ha, ha — something fine! (Placing it on 
the table) There! (Runion crosses and deposits 
Claudia's bundle near mantel l.) Dear old Alice' 

She hasn't forgotten us after all. . . 

(Happily) I think it will be all right now ... all 
right. (Turning jubilantly) Now, Runion, my 
boy, get a move on! Help me shovel in these jim- 
cracks and things ! (Stuffing hands full of candy 
into a stocking) Jolly old time, Christmas, — isn't 
it? 

Runion. (Staring at him) W'y, sir, arskin' 
your pardon, sir, I thought you said as 'ow you was 
feelin' a bit broke-uppish, sir, an' 



THE PRINCE CHAP. ^-j 

Peyton. Did I? (Laughing) Well, I reckon 
it's a sort of passing off. Christmas in my boneSj 
Runion — Christmas in my bones! (LAUGHTER 
and NOISE outside r. by Ballington, Rodney, 
Yadder and Fritz) You see — Hullo! (The doof 
opens in a crack and Ballington's head appears) 

Ballington. (Sticks head in door, others in a 
group behind) Hi, Billy! Coast clear? 

Peyton, (c.) Come in! Come in! (More 
NOISE, LAUGHTER, etc., outside) 

Ballington. S-h-h-h ! (To others) Claudia 
gone to bed yet ? 

Peyton. Yes. What's the row? Come in. 

(Enter Jack Rodney, Ballington, Yadder and 
Fritz. They are arrayed fantastically in studio 
toggery. Ballington has on a dressing-goivn 
with the cords and tassels tied under his chin 
like a cravat, a feather duster stuffed in the 
back of his collar. Yadder has on a flowing 
Japanese kimono and a Turkish fez. Fritz is 
in his shirt sleeves; has on a blue checked 
apron, and a beaver hat on the back of his head, 
to which red and white streamers are tied. 
Jack is in simple evening dress and has his 
arms full of small bundles.) 

Peyton. (Shaking hands all around) Hello, 
Jack! Ballington! Yadder! Fritz, how are you! 
(Laughing. All join hands with Peyton in c. and 
dance around him in a circle twice, singing " Come 
to see Miss Jenny a Jones") What's this — bit of 
a spree again? 

(They surround Peyton noisily, all striving to talk 
at once. At end of dance, all are in same po- 
sitions as at beginning except Fritz, who goes 
well L.) 

Yadder. (Pushing the others apart) Shut up, 



68 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

you chaps! Let the Arch Bishop speak! (Points 
to Jack) 

All. Speech! Speech! etc. 

Ballington. Silence for the Arch Bishop ! Go 
it, Canterbury! {D^lsts him off with duster) 

Yadder. (Clapping his hands) Object to the 
name. Call him J^-canter-bury. 

(Laughter, pushing, and cries of "Hear, Hear!*') 

Jack. (l. c. Arm full of bundle. ) Oh, see 
here, you fellows, don't be such beastly — ah — 
idiots! (Turning to Peyton) You see, Billy — it 
isn't anything ... to call for a speech, or any such 
— er — nonsense, you know. 

All. Hear ! Hear ! 

Jack. (Clearing his throat) Fact is, Billy, we 
chaps in the studio — atl of us, you understand — are 
in love with . . httle Claudia. Heels over head— 
and all that sort of thing. ( Cries iof Hearr! Hear!) 
Jolly little beggar! Wanted to — er — to make her 
Christmas happy, we chaps; and so, Billy, we 
thought we'd — er — bring her a few trifles, you 
know . . . and — and — and — oh, damn it all! — here 
you are! (He dumps bundles on the table — Bal- 
lington, Yadder and Fritz each seize a light chair 
astride and ride around once in a circle as Jack and 
Peyton stand r. and l. of table c, laughing, while 
his speech is received with whoops of delight from 
the others) 

Peyton. (After the business. Faltering) 
Now, look here, boys, that's clever of you — I swear 
it is. When you are good to Claudia, you — you hit 
me here — in the heart. I — I really don't know how 
to thank you enough, boys, but — but — (Calling) 
Runion ! For heaven's sake give us a drink ! 

(Runion has tray and glasses ready up l. — soda, 
siphon, etc.) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 69 

Ballington- {Slapping him on the hack) 
That's the way to put out gratitude, my son. It 
gives us a chance to toss it off and be done with it. 
{In an undertone) But, say, Billy, don't let us 
have but one. Little jamboree up stairs in my den 
— bowl of hot punch — want you to come up. 

Peyton. {Beaming) Bully! All right. 

Fritz. {Advancing to c. from r.) Ach Gott, 
yah, Pilly! Him ver' fine ponch. I mage him. 
Yes? 

Yadder. {Grinning) You see, Peyton, we ran 
out of Jamaica rum ; so Fritzy is spiking the stuff 
with his imported accent. {Knocking off the Ger- 
man's beaver hat and speaking sternly) Come 
here, Gotterdamerung, take off your hat and tell the 
the gentlemen how to make a punch! 

Fritz. {Beaming) You see, von I mage dat 
punch, I haf de maderials reatty against my elpows ; 
den I asg dat somevun sit on Yadder and stop him 
dat he talk so much. Den I migs in a pan zom 
r'rum und sooker und a leedle bit varmoot . . . 
vich I puts den on de fiar . . und leds dem simper. 

Peyton. Preparatory to taking a smile. 

Fritz. {Nodding) Yah, dot iz it. Un ven dem 
is simpered, I mage chastizement a schpoon mit, 
until dem iz that so done. Eh? 

Peyton. {Sits on arm of chair. BalliNgton 
leans on hack) Fritz, it makes me dizzy just to 
hear about it. 

Fritz, (r. of Peyton,, vastly pleased) So. 
Den I puds in de — de — how you calls him? 

Yadder. {Slaps Fritz on the hack roughly — r. 
of Fritz) Stuff. 

Fritz. Yah, dot iz it. I puds in de stuff und 
migses all togedder som in a pig powl. 

Peyton- In a what? 

Ballington. He means a big bowl — so let it 
pass. 

Fritz. {Nodding and smiling) Yah. Und den 



70 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

I migses him mit finar so hot like hell, und — (With 
a sweeping bow) und de veast iz reatty. 

Yadder. ( R. Seizing Fritz's blue check apron 
and pulling it over his head) Oh, let us draw a 
veil upon this foul murder of a Christian tongue. 

Jack. (l. of table. As the two scuffle together) 
Oh, I say — Claudia will never get to sleep. (Bal- 
LiNGTON separates them. As Runion places 
whiskey and glasses on the table) Here we are. 
All up ! 

{They scramble for places around the table, while 
Ballington pours from the decanter.) 

Balling. Only one, boys — remember that — and 
then we'll help old Santa Claus fix up Claudia's tree. 

Others. All right. All right, etc. 

Jack. {Raising his glass) To Piggy — the witch \ 

All. Piggy! Piggy! Piggy! 

Yadder. {Beginning to sing) For she's a jolly 
good Pig-gy. For she's a jolly good Pig-gy. 

Jack- Oh, shut up, Yadder! — All over! 

Peyton. {Softly) Thank you, boys — thank you. 
{Crosses to Fritz, zvho is 'r.) 

Balling. {Back of table c.) Now, get to work, 
you sappers, and clear things up a bit. Here, Run- 
ion, take away that horrible temptation, and — and 
swallow some yourself. 

Runion. Yes, sir — thank you, sir — your 'ealth, 
sir. {He clears the table) 

Jack- {Handing out stockings) Here you are 
— candy — nuts — everything. Get to work. {They 
all go to work zvith a will. Peyton gets to l. for 
Puckers' stocking, some filling stockings, others 
dressing the tree with tinsel, candles, silver butter- 
flies, golden beetles, etc.) 

Yadder. What have you got, Billy? 

Peyton. {Holding up stocking) This? 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 71 

{Laughing) Belongs to Her Most Smooty High- 
ness — Phoebe Puckers — Empress of the Coal Bin. 
Long may she wave ! Oh, I say, boys, let's chip in, 
and 

Jack- Jolly! (Taking Fritz's hat) Here, you 
chaps — a shilling all round for Puckers. 

Peyton. (Remains over l.) Good, Jack! 
Good! (As Jack passes the hat) And may Santa 
Claus blast the miser! Shell out! Shell out! 
{They laughingly deposit money in the hat which 
Jack passes at last to Peyton) 

Peyton. (Adding to it, putting it in and tying 
the stocking) There! H that don't make your 
eyes bulge, then I'm a Turk ! Here, Runion ! Hang 
this up again, will you? 

Runion. (Taking stocking) Yes, sir. (He 
crosses to fire-place, zvhile Peyton opens a box 
down L., takes out a large wax doll and holds it 
up admiringly. Runion putting hand in pocket 
and atking out coin) Beg pardon, sir, but may I 
also? 

Peyton. (Slapping him on back) Good old 
Runion! (The others cheer) Aha! How's that, 
Vritzy? Now, isn't she a royal flush? 

(Fritz and Jack around the table.) 

Fritz. Och ! Gott ! Wunderschon ! 

Jack- (Crossing) What is it . . . Billy? 

Peyton. (Advancing towards them) Doll for 
Claudia — " that when you squeeze her in the stom- 
ach she says, '' w-a-n-n-nh ! " (Squeezes the doll 
and the others laugh. As others laugh Peyton re- 
places the doll in its box dozun l. . Ballington is 
standing on a chair back of the table c.) 

Yadber. (r. of table. Taking from the table the 
box zvhich Alice has sent) Hello! What's this? 

Peyton. (Crossing to l. of table szviftly, his 
hand shooting out tozvard the box) That's mine! 



72 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 



Yadder. (Drawing away) Girl, eh? Oh, you 
sly old rascal! 

Fritz. (Boisterously) Obenhim! Yah! Yah! 
Oben him! Ve see vat de Fraulein send! Yah! 
Yah! (Yadder is about to break the string, zvhen 
Peyton speaks again, quietly, but zvith a dangerous 
glitter in his eye) 

Peyton. Yadder ! Don't do that ! 

Ballington- (Laughing and jumping from the 
chair) Open it, Yad. I'll hold Billy. (Puts his 
arm about Peyton) 

Peyton. (Wrenching himself free and turning 
on Yadder and Ballington) Look here, boys, my 
temper isn't easily ruffled, but I tell you once for 
all — don't. (He looks Yadder in the eye. Yadder 
hesitates, then replaces the box on the table, hold- 
ing out his hand) 

Peyton. (Smiling and pressing his hand) I'll 
show it to you to-morrow, boys — to-morrw. 

Ballington. I say, the punch ! It's getting- 
cold! 

Yadder. (Flinging up his hands in mock de- 
spair) Horrible ! The punch is getting cold ! To 
the rescue! (Runs to door r., then turns) 

Jack. (Crosses to r. As he crosses) Coming, 
Billy? 

Peyton. (Front of table) Yes, I'll be there 
prensently — ten minutes. But don't wait. 

(The visitors cross toward the door at R.) 

Fritz. (Going to door) Him ver* good punch! 
Bedder com quvick, Pilly poy, Pilly poy! 

Peyton. (Calling) I will, Vritzy, I will! 
(They troop out noisily, singing, " Tommy Atkins'* 
and are heard clattering up the stairs. Peyton 
crosses to door, closes it, then turns to Runion) 
Jolly old crowd! But, Lord! What heads they'll 
have in the morning. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 73 

RuNioN. (At fire-place hanging stockings, etc.) 
Like plum puddings, sir, with the suet sore. 

Peyton. (Crosses back to table to Alice's pres- 
ent. Laughing) Exactly! Now, Runion, sup- 
pose you trot along to bed. I'll finish up the rest 
of these things myself. 

Runion. (Hanging up the last stocking) Very 
good, sir. Thank you, sir. Good-night. 

Peyton. Tetter unfasten the small hall door. 
(Runion unfastens door c. Following him up r.) 
Merry Christmas to you, Runion, Merry Christ- 
mas. (Laughing) Perhaps we'll put something 
into that old white sock of yours that will surprise 
you, after all. (Laughing) Good-night, Runion! 
Good-night ! 

Runion. (Bowing in the doorway) Thank you, 
sir. Good-night. (Exit) 

(Peyton listens intently for a moment, then crosses 
swiftly to the table, covering Alice's present 
zvith both his hands.) 

Peyton, (r. of table) Alice! . . . (He holds 
the box to his breast, gently replaces it on the table, 
pats it with his hands, then begin slowly pacing up 
and down) Wonder what's in it, anyway- (Sits 
on arm of chair) Square . . . and heavy! . . . 
H'u'm ! . . I know. Silver hair brush ! (Picks up 
package and shakes it) No! Too heavy for that! 
(Sets it down) Now, what the dickens! — (Pauses, 
his fingers toying tvith the string) Promised 
Claudia — wouldn't look till morning — not till morn- 
ing. (Sets it back. He edges away to l., walk- 
ing around table, looking at package) But, she'd 

open hers! — and — er shaving mug! That's 

it! Always did want a shaving mug! (Rubs 
chin) Ha, ha! Wish I hadn't promised 
Claudia. . . (Starting suddenly) Why, it may 
need an answer. (He snatches up the box) Good 



74 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

old Alice! (Setting it down with a determined 
bang) But — I — won't — open — that — box — 
to-night! H'u'm! (Returns to fire-place. Takes 
out his pocket knife and springs the blade) 
Wouldn't think of opening it . . to-night! Said I 
wouldn't — (Looks behind him guiltily) — and I 
won't. (He cuts the string, then stops suddenly) 
But just one peep — just one — and besides, there 
might be a note in it. (Pulling off the string and 
the zvrapper) That's so . . . I'm perfectly right 
in opening it — perfectly! (As he moves the wrap- 
per a note slips out, falling to the floor) Aha! 
Just knew there was a note in that box! (Nodding 
his head emphatically) Now, suppose I hadn't 
opened it ! (He seats himself in an easy-chair r. of 
table, facing the audiance, holding tht box in his 
arm, while he breaks the seal of the note, when 
Claudia is heard calling) 

Claudia. Daddy! Daddy! 

Peyton. (Calling) In a minute, darling! Just 
a minute! (Opening the note, glancing at the first 
line and smiling) My dear Will ! (Presses the 
note to his lips) Well — let's see. (Reading) I 
send two packages ; one a little cloak for Claudia — 
(Looking up happily) Ah! Bless her heart; Now, 
isn't that just like her! (Reading) — a cloak for 
Claudia ; yet the other is not a gift. I return your 
own — which, at best, must be the saddest of sweet 
memories — your letters and your ring. Alice Hel- 
mer. (Starting, then breaking into a nervous 
laughq Why — why, it's some trick — some — (Re- 
turning to letter. His hand sinks to his side. As 
he rises from his seat, the box in his arm tilts, and 
his letters scatter upon the floor. For an instant he 
gazes at them numbly, then with a smothered cry, 
he sinks into his seat. In this scene there must be 
no outburst, the actor showing mutely the crushing 
blow zvhich has bee ndealt him. Still holding the 
empty box, he sits gazing out before him, his eyes 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 75 

fixed on nothingness, his lips moving silently. 
Claudia's face appears in doorway at rear) 

Claudia. {Calling) Daddy! (No answer. 
She enters in her night dress and starts to advance, 
when she spies the Christmas tree) Oh! Why, 
Daddy! Has he come already? {No answer) 
Daddy! (Peyton, unconscious of her presence, 
gazes before him. Claudia crosses to his side) 
You didn't come to tell me good-night . . . and 
hear my prayers. Did — did you forget? 

Peyton. {Numbly) Forget? No, darl- 
ing .... I'll never . . . forget! .... 

Claudia. {In wonder and fear) You are cry- 
ing, Daddy what's the matter? 

Peyton. Nothing, darling — only — I had such a 

pain — here .... where my heart used to 

be ! {Bows his head. Claudia puts arms around 
him) 

{A peal of soft toned CHRISTMAS CHIMES is 
heard in the distance.) 

curtain. 



ACT III. 



Scene : — Sitting room in Mr. Peyton's apartments, 
ten years after close of Act Second. The room 
is furnished simply but artistically ; rugs, drap- 
eries, pictures, bronzes etc. At left is an open 
fire-place, before which is a large easy-chair. 
At R. is an upright piano. At centre is a 
settee piled with cushions. At left is a small 
table upon which is a cigar holder, also al- 
cohol lamp; at rear right another small table. 
Over the piano hangs a large picture of 
Claudia in an oval frame. 



;r6 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Entrance at right rear, and wide doorway at 
rear centre showing four steps and a platform 
to stairs, also passageway leading off to right. 
At left rear is a window hung with lace cur- 
tains. 

Discovered: — Runion seated in an easy chair be- 
fore the fire. He is nodding, with his hands 
folded across his stomach, and has a sealed let- 
ter in one hand. 

Peyton enters from rear, comes to Runion, 
looks down upon him with a smile, glances at 
address on letter and takes it from Run ion's 
hand. He reads letter, folds it, then turns to 
Runion. 

Peyton should show a slight increase of age in 
make up. 

Peyton. Ahem ! {As Runion starts up in con- 
fusion) Good evening, Runion. I trust you find 
the chair and fire conducive to comfort — peace? 

Runion. Er — yes sir — that is — I mean I was 
a-waitin' for you, sir. A letter come by 'and, sir 
— and — {He looks about and begins fumbling in his 
pockets) 

Peyton. {Tapping letter with his fingers, and 
smiling) Perhaps this is it. You delivered it 
while asleep. 

Runion. {In astonishment) Delivered it w'ilst 
— O — h! {Backing away) I — I remember, sir. 
Booty .... 'as become a second nature, sir. 

Peyton. Yes, I see. Tell Claudia I am here, 
will you? I came home earlier than I expected. 

Runion. Very good, sir. {He feels in his inner 
coat pocket, glares at Peyton over his shoulder and 
exits at rear) 

(Peyton stands for a moment, turns and looks at 
Claudia's picture, with his hands behind his 



THE PRINCE CHAP. ^^ 

back. He turns with a sigh, crosses slowly 
and seats himself in easy-chair before the fire, 
re-reads his letter and falls into reverie. 
Claudia appears on stairway at rear.) 

Claudia. Daddy! {As Peyton starts slightly, 
putting the letter in his pocket, she trips across to 
him, seats herself on the arm of his chair and puts 
her arms about his neck) Wasn't the club attract- 
ive this evening? 

Peyton. (IVith a smile) Not half so much as 
home, little woman — not half. 

Claudia. I'm glad of that. But, tell me — what 
is it? 

Peyton. What's what? 

Claudia. It is I who ask the question. You sat 
dreaming .... and your thoughts were not happy, 
Dad. 

Peyton. Nonsense, Piggy — nonsense! 

Claudia. (After slight pause) Then, too, you 
had a letter, and when I came in, you put it in your 
pocket. Was it something you didn't wish me to 
see? (As Peyton smiles and shakes his head) 
Oho ! / know ! A lady ! 

Peyton. (Rising) Yes, dear — a lady. 

Claudia. (With indrawn breath) Princess 
Alice ? 

Peyton. No. I have not heard from Princess 
Alice for many years and, perhaps will never hear 
again. (As Claudia's look of happiness returns) 
But, about the other lady I wish to speak with you 
— seriously. 

Claudia. (Joyously) Serious? You serious? 
Dad, I don't believe it. 

Peyton. (Slowly, and with a frown) Claudia 
. ... I'm going to engage ... a housekeeper. 

Claudia, (hi open astonishment) A what? 

Peyton. A housekeeper. A Mrs. Partridge — ■ 



78 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

middle aged and most respectable — to — er — look 
after things, you know. 

Claudia. But, Daddy . . . what for? 

Peyton. (Hesitating) Well, you see — it's this 
way — (Taking her hand tenderly) You have your 
music and your French and — um — and lots of 
things to occupy your time ; and while 

Claudia, (Pouting) And you are dissatisfied 
with me, Dad? Haven't I fixed you up perfectly 
heavenly little dinners and mended your socks and 
coddled you and spoiled you and — Oh, Daddy 1 
(Pulls her hand away and moves to centre) 

Peyton. (Following her) No, no, no — you 
don't understand — you 

Claudia. (Flinging up her hands) And, oh, 
Runion ! Won't he raise a rumpus when he finds — 
(Imitating Runion's dismal tone) You've gone an*" 
'ired a 'ousekeeper hover 'is 'ead? (Drops on piano 
stool and plays a strain of " There is a Happy Land 
Far, Far Away") 

Peyton. Now, never you mind about Runion. 
Fll manage him. (Sitting on settee at centre) 
I'm only thinking of you. 

Claudia. (Turning on stool and facing him) 
Well, that part is easy enough. I won't have her I 

Peyton. Claudia ! 

Claudia. No, it's no use urging, Dad, I just 
won't. She'd have a huge feather duster and a 
long red nose and — Daddy, look me in the eye! 
Hasn't she a long red nose? 

Peyton. But, Piggy, my dear. I haven't even 
seen her yet. If you'd only listen 

Claudia. No, wait! Wait! (She runs to table 
at left rear, returns with a cigar and a lighted spirit 
lamp, handing him the cigar) Light that, please — 
quick. 

Peyton. Thank you. (After lighting cigar 
meekly and turning to Claudia, who has crossed to 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 79 

replace the spirit lamp) And, may I inquire into the 
reason of this donation? 

Claudia. Certainly. {Returning to settee) 
You are always in a better humor when you smoke, 
and I can manage you better when you are in a bet- 
ter humor. {Flinging her arms about his neck, lay- 
ing her cheek against his, and speaking in the old, 
childish, wheedling tone) We don't want any red 
nosed housekeeper — do we? 

Peyton. {Tenderly) Oh, Piggy, Piggy, what is 
the use of parental armor when the child knows 
every crevice? {Removing her arms from his neck 
and speaking earnestly) But, come, dear, I am 
serious. You will listen? 

Claudia. Why, yes. Dad — of course. {Seats 
herself beside him) 

Peyton. Think, Claudia, you are no longer a 
child — but a woman. In — let me see — in about 
three weeks we will place just nineteen candles 
around your birthday cake. 

Claudia. {With a mock sigh) Yes, Daddy 
, . . . I'm an old maid! 

Peyton. {Paying no heed to her tone of banter) 
You are living here — with me — er — practically 
alone 

Claudia. {Quickly) There's Mary. 

Peyton. — and you see 

Claudia. Well, I've lived so for thirteen years. 
Why should I not go on ? 

Peyton. Because you are a woman, Claudia. 
Don't you understand? 

Claudia. {Looking him squarely in the eye) 
No, Dad, I don't ! 

Peyton. {After pause) And, don't you know 
that there are people in this world who have a way 
of saying unkind things — brutal things? 

Claudia. And what do we care what other peo- 
ple say? We don't say unkind or brutal things. 

Peyton. {Gently) No, dear, but it is because 



8o THE PRINCE CHAP. 

of these other people that I wish to have some other 
woman in our home — near you — with you. {He 
pauses, and Claudia knits her brows in thought, 
then turns to him openlv and in wonder) 

Claudia. But— but, Daddy . . . WHY? (Pey- 
ton ponders a moment, rises and paces to R. in 
thought. As he reaches the piano his eye falls upon 
a book. He touches it lightly, then turns to 
Claudia) 

Peyton. My dear ... I wish you would read 
this book. It isn't much of a story to be sure, but 
— but perhaps it will help you to understand. {He 
crosses, standing in rear of the settee. Claudia, 
zvho has been watching him, rises and crosses to 
piano. She looks at book, then turns, speaking care- 
lessly) 

Claudia. Why, I've read that book. {Pause) 
It's a horrid story. {Looking up with a light laugh) 
Why, surely, Dad, you don't mean to say — {She 
pauses, abruptly noting his silent mien and averted 
face, then speaks again in dawning fear) You 
don't mean .... that they would say .... 
{Turning slozvly away as she understands) Oh 
.... Daddy ! ( The strained silence is broken by 
the entrance of Runion at rear. He is about to 
to speak, when he stops suddenly, shaking with sup- 
pressed amusement) 

Peyton. (Speaking with a shade of severity) 
Well, Runion? What does this mean? 

Runion. (Striving to hold himself in check) 
Nothink, sir — only — (He bursts into a laugh, which 
he checks by stuffing a fold of a portiere into his 
mouth) 

Peyton. (More severely) Runion! What's the 
matter with you ! 

Runion. Beg pardon, sir, but — but — (Splutter- 
ing) it's P-P-Puckers, sir ! {Again he stuffs porti- 
ere into his mouth) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 8i 

Peyton. What! Phoebe? (Laughing) Oh, I 
see. Well, show her in, by all means. 

Claudia. (Turning from where she has stood 
silent at R., as Runion exits quickly) Yes, do. 
(To Peyton) Why, we haven't" seen her for five 
years. Think of it! 

Peyton. (Laughing) And, by the way, I for- 
got to tell you. I met Ballington — in the Park this 
afternoon — v/onderfully sober he was, too, told me 
that Puckers was in town . . . and had joined a 
circus. 

Claudia. A circus? 

Peyton. (Nodding) Um-hum — A real, live, 
glittering, three-ringed affair. We'll have to see it. 
(Turning) Ah! 

(Enter Puckers from rear. She is attired in the 
costume of a Chcapside belle, topped off with a 
gorgeously flowered hat, which is continually 
sliding over one ear. She carries a small hand 
bag, and wears black half -mitts, a cheap hand- 
kerchief being pinned to the back of one of 
them. She advances with little bobbing curt- 
seys. ) 

And it's Puckers in the flesh. 

Puckers. W'y, Mr. Peyton, 'ow do you dof I 
just come as soon as I could to see you an' — (Turn- 
ing as she catches sight of Claudia) Miss Claudy! 
(She runs forzvard as if to take Claudia in her 
arms, and pauses abruptly in confusion) O — h! 

Claudia. (Laughing, as she takes Pucker's 
hands cordially) Why, Puckers! Is it you! How 
good of you to come to see us — really. (Leading 
her toward settee) And this is our Phoebe of the 
studios. I just can't believe it. 

Puckers. No more can I, miss — you a growed 
hup young loidy, and as Mr. Runion says, with 
five young men a-sparkin' of you. 



82 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

(RuNioN, who is peeping through curtains, shakes 
his finger and disappears suddenly. He ap- 
pears and disappears all through this scene.) 

Peyton. {Smiling) Have a seat, Puckers — 
won't you ? 

Puckers. Thank you, sir. {Seating herself on 
the extreme edge of settee) But, I ain't got but a 
minute, sir. {Adjusting her hat complacently) 
Piffessinals is rushed — just awful. 

Peyton. {Smiling) And so you've joined a 
circus. I believe " tumbling " used to be your spec- 
ialty. Still at it? 

Puckers. No, no, sir, but Pm hunderstudy to 
Mam'selle Peachay — 'er as rides bare-back, you 
know and 'ops through 'oops. 

Claudia. Ma'am'selle who? 

Puckers. Peechay. That means peach in the 
French langwitch. Miss. 

Peyton. It's great. We'll come to see you . . . 
when the steam caliope drowns the roaring of the 
lions — when Phoebe Puckers leaps upon a snorting 
steed, careers around the ring — the brass band toot- 
ing, and the multitudes gone mad with thunders of 
applause. 

Puckers. {Clapping her hands rapturously) 
Yes, sir. 

Claudia. And, do you really love the life? 

Puckers. I loves it in the day time, but I ain't 
so keen about it of nights. W'y, I never knows wot 
minute a tagger or a 'ienna or somethink will get 
a-loost and come a-jumpin' in me bed. 

Claudia. It's terrible. 

Puckers. Yes'm. I tried to get a iron cage wot 
belonged to a lion afore 'e died, but the clown 'e 
got it first. 'E says as 'ow sleepin* restless affecks 
'is jokes. 

Peyton. {Laughing) I dare say it might. 
Well, why not settle it by marrying the clown. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 83 

Puckers. Ho, Lud, Mr. Peyton, sir, I can't do» 
that. (Faltering bashfully) I'm goin' to marry 
another man sir ! 

Claudia and Peyton. WHAT ! 

(Puckers starts, slips from the settee, and takes a 
seat on the rug. Peyton on one side and 
Claudia on the other assist her in rising. She 
sits again, adjusting her hat.) 

Puckers. Thank you, sir. You — you spoke so 
suddint. (Turning) Yes, Miss Claudy, I'm going 
to be married. That's w'y I come. Miss, to ast you 
to the weddin'. (She fishes a much soiled envelope 
from her hag, handing it to Claudia) It's an in- 
vite, that's wot it is. We 'ad so many buzzom 
friends that them 'ere cards they wouldn't go round, 
so I shows 'em an' passes 'em along. 

Claudia. (Glancing at card, then offering her 
hand) Why, Puckers. It's perfectly splendid! A 
hundred congratulations. 

Always said you'd come out strong on matrimony. 
Who's the lucky chap? 

Puckers. (Proudly) A hartist, sir. 

Peyton. An artist! Bully! What's his line? 

Puckers. 'E's a arry-nort, sir. 

Claudia. A what? 

Puckers. A arry-nort. A hartist wot goes hup 
in a &a/-loon, an' comes a-floatin' down in a parrot- 
shoot. 

Peyton. Ah, I see. An aeronaut. 

Puckers. Yes, sir. (Turning) An' say, 'e's 
awful 'andsome. Pink legs, all over spangles (De- 
claiming) wot, flashin*, glistenses in the sun of 
Gawd's gloryis rays. (Starting, as Peyton looks up 
in surprise) It — it says that on 'is bill. 

Peyton. (Smiling) Oh, yes, of course. (Tak- 
ing card from Claudia) And what, may I ask, is 
the daring gentleman's name? 



84 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

-Puckers. They calls 'im the Seenyou Mally- 
gancy, but 'is right name is 'Arry Swivers. {To 
Claudia, with a look of pride) Me an' 'im met at 
the cirkis, Miss, an' loved at sight. 

Claudia. How deliciously romantic. {Doubt- 
fully) But — but don't you find his profession a 
trifle — er — risky ? 

Puckers. Yes'm, that I do. W'y, Miss Claudia, 
w'en I walks on the street I daresn't look hup in 
the helements for fear of seein' my own fyancy 
come a-plungin' down on the top of me 'ead. Talk 
about 'avin' lovers throwed at you. My Gawd ! 

Peyton. Well, Puckers, let us hope that there 
will be no accidents to the Senor, and that the 
Senora Maliganzi will be happy always. 

Claudia. {As Puckers backs away) Won't 
you have some tea and cake before you go? 

Puckers. No, no, thank you ; Fve hardly got 
the time. {Taking card which Peyton hands her) 
You'll come to the wedding, won't you? 

Claudia. We wouldn't miss it for the world. 

Peyton. And, we'll remember the wedding 
presents, too. 

Puckers. Ho, thank you, sir. Thank both of 
you. {Pausing) Vm very 'appy, sir. I think I'd 
rather be the Seenyoura Malygancy than — than 
the Venus de Medicine. {With a series of little 
bobbing curtseys) Good-bye. Good-bye. Good- 
bye. {She adjusts her hat and exits at rear. Pey- 
ton crosses to fire-place, while Claudia goes to 
rear, looking after Puckers. In a moment she 
turns) 

Claudia. Wasn't she funny, Dad? 

Peyton. Yes; but without her scuttle and her 
smutty face, gracious, what an evolution. 

(RuNioN enters from rear, with card tray.) 

Claudia. Well, Runion? 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 85 

RuNiON. A lady, miss. (Extending tray toward 
Peyton, zvho is nearest him) She awsked for you, 
sir, and Miss Claudia. 

Peyton. (Taking the mourning card from tray, 
glancing a tthe name with a slight start, then letting 
his hand sink slowly to his side) You may show 
her in, Runion. (Exit Runion at rear, while Pey- 
ton stands in thought) 

Claudia. Who is it. Daddy? 

(Peyton silently hands her the card, then walks to 
rear. ) 

Claudia. (Starting, as she reads name) 
Mourning! .... For whom? 

Runion. (Announcing) Mrs. *Elmer! 

{Enter Mrs. Helmer, attired in mourning, hut with 
her veil drawn aside.) 

Alice. ( With outstretched hands) Will I 

Peyton. (Meeting her, hut without marked en- 
thusiasm) Why, Alice! This is indeed a surprise. 

Alice. And a pleasure, may I hope? 

Peyton. Fm glad to see you. 

Alice. How dear of you. (Turning) And this 
is Claudia! I dare say you don't remember me, 
for you were quite a little girl when I saw you last. 

Claudia. (Shaking hands) Oh, yes, Mrs. Hel- 
mer, I remember you very well. 

Alice. Thank you, Claudia. (As she returns to 
centre. Sitting on settee) And you don't know 
how glad I am to see you. Will — to see you so 
happy, so prosperous, in this ideal home of yours. 
(With a smiling glance at Claudia) You should 
indeed be proud of it. 

Peyton. Proud of it? I am. (Crossing and 
placing his arm ahout Claudia, who nestles up to 



86 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

him) And this little woman has made it what it is 
— an oasis in the desert. 

Alice. (Lightly) How charmingly poeticaH 
An oasis ! Then may a wanderer hope that one of 
your many springs spouts tea? For, really, I am 
famished fr a cup. In Genoa the tea is vile. 

Peyton. Why, with pleasure. (Starts toward 
R., whejt Claudia intercepts him) 

Claudia. Let me get it. Daddy. 

Alice. (Protesting) No, no, no — don't trouble^ 
my dear,. I beg of you. 

Claudia. (With formal inclination of her head) 
It is none, I assure you. 

(As Alice crosses and sinks into easy chair at l., 
Claudia goes to R. rear. At the door she turns,, 
looks back unhappily, and exits.) 

Alice. And she calls you Daddy . . . still? 

Peyton. Yes. Why not? 

Alice. (With a light laugh) Oh, nothing! I 
was merely curious to know. It was always a fault 
of mine, this curiosity. (With a change of tone) 
I have just arrived from Genoa. Delightful climate 
— perfectly delightful. (Glancing up) Do you 
think it has agreed with me? 

Peyton. Yes — yes — of course — but — (Glancing 
at her mourning weeds) Pardon me — you 

Alice. Yes, Will, he died nearly a year ago. 

Peyton. Oh! I — I hadn't heard. (Pause) 
There is little one may say 

Alice. (Interrupting) There — don't waste 
your sympathy. I never really loved him. (Rising 
as Peyton turns away) Come now — tell me about 
yourself. 

Peyton. (Rather nervously) Well — there is 
very little to tell. I've been moving along — er — in 
the same old way 

Alice. (Laughing) How deliciously modest! 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 87 

Ah, I have followed the sculptor's flight to fame. 
Success in your profession. The whole of London 
scrambling for your work. Really, Will, I'm proud 
to be of the same country with you. (Pause, then 
glancing up) Still a bachelor? 

Peyton. Er — thus far — guilty. But, you see, 
I've been so busy with my work — and — with 
Claudia's education — ^that I've had very little oppor- 
tunity to mingle — so to speak — among 

Alice. (Merrily) How utterly absurd! Why, 
you haven't changed one bit in the last ten years. 
(As Peyton endeavors to protest) Now, don't put 
on a long face and tell me that a man loves but 
once. (As Peyton again tries to protest) What! 
Surely you don't want me to believe that just be- 
cause an impulsive young gentleman elects to mis- 
understand an equally impulsive girl 

Peyton. (In astonishment) Misunderstand? 

Alice. Of course! . . , You treated me very 
badly. Will. 

Peyton. (In blank <xmazement) I? 

Alice. (Coolly) You did . . . But I forgave 
you long ago. (Abruptly) By the way, what a 
dear, sweet child Claudia is. (As Peyton turns 
involuntarily toward Claudia's picture) Does she 
know why I , . . broke with you? 

Peyton. No. I have tried to spare her every 
sorrow possible. 

Alice. Will . . . you chose between Claudia 
and me — giving her a love that was rightly mine 
. . . You 

Peyton. Alice ! 

Alice. But, if misfortune has come to both of 
us, am / to blame? If you have suffered in silence 
for the past ten years, was it not Claudia who made 
it so? 

Peyton. (With a sigh of impatience) Say 
\vhat you will of me — (Turning again toward 



88 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Claudia's picture) — ^but, of Claudia . . , No! 
{Turning) Let's talk of something else. 

Alice. {With a change of tone) Pm sorry. 
Will . . but some day — perhaps? {Pause) Pm 
going back to America. {Pause) I sail day after 
to-morrow. {With a sigh she crosses to him, lay- 
ing her hand on his arm) Ah, Will, the fault was 
not all mine. They wanted me to marry money — 
money! They urged me — harried me — poisoned my 
mind against you. They told me that Claudia was 
your own . . . and when I saw how you loved the 
child, I, too, believed. 

Peyton. No, Alice. In your heart you knew I 
spoke the truth. 

Alice. And was there no suffering for me? Did 
I not learn to hate the very name of Helmer? when 
the memory of another came between us always? 
{Tenderly) The memory of a Prince Chap who 
had waited — waited 

Peyton. {Wheeling about) And in vain. 
{After pause, in changed tone) You tell me you 
have suffered. I believe it . . . and I am sorry 
from the bottom of my heart ; but the dead man is 
not alone responsible. 

Alice. {With a sigh) Perhaps your reproach 
is just. My defense would be idle. And yet . . if 
you can find forgiveness in your heart — forgive.^ 

Peyton. (Stretching out his hand) Yes, Alice 
— Freely, and without the stain of bitterness. 

Alice. Then, good-bye, dear. . . My memories 
of you . . . will be the happiest of my life. Good- 
bye. 

Peyton. {Taking her hand) Good-bye, Alice. 
... I wish you luck — always. {As they cross to 
rear) You — you have a taxi 

Alice. Well, no. I— I dismissed it. {Smiling) 
But it doesn't matter— really. The hotel is only a 
step. {Glancing out of window) Dear me, how 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 89 

dark .it has grown. (Turning) Would — wOuId 

you mind ? 

Peyton. I will see you over— with pleasure. 
(She smiles at him and exits, Peyton following 
meekly. In a moment Claudia enters from r. with 
tea tray, which she sets on the table. She looks up 
in astonishment to find herself alone," listens as she 
hears the front door close, then crosses to window) 

Claudia. (Advancing, then pausing in troubled 
thought) How strange! I wonder .... if she 
really wanted.. . . that tea! (She goes slowly 
toward fire-place, picks up Mrs. Helmer's card, 
and looks at it sadly) She's free! .... Free! 
(Drops the card and sinks into chair) And Daddy 
has gone with her . . . and never a word ... to 
me. (She turns to fire, covering her eyes with her 
handkerchief. Enter Runion, zvith a look of gloom, 
carrying coal-scuttle in his arms. He glances at 
Claudia and clears his throat, but she pays no 
heed. Presently he drops shovel on the floor de- 
liberately) 

Claudia. (Starting) Runion! Do be careful! 

Runion. Hexcuse me, miss, for a-causin' you 
to jump. It — it slipped. 

(Claudia once more begins looking into the fire. 
Runion deposits the scuttle by the hearth, 
brushes his hands on his trousers and turns to 
her.) 

Runion. Beg pardon. Miss Claudia, but this 
'ere Mrs. Partridge now. I understands as 'ow/ 
she's comin' 'ere . . . to be a . . . 'ousekeeper. 

Claudia. (Not looking at him) How did you 
know, Runion? 

Runion. (In some confusion) I — I over'eard 
it — er — accidental, miss. 

Claudia. (Abstractedly) Did you? Well, it's 
true. 



90 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

RuNioN. Aha ! I 'ad my suspicions, but 'eld my 
tongue, 'ard as it was to 'old it ! Fourteen years I 
served 'im faithful — bore with 'im — washed 'is 
winders . . . And now 'e goes and makes of me 
. . a underlin' ! (Claudia watches the fire, mak- 
ing no answer. Runion continues solemnly) And 
will I bow my neck? No, Miss Claudia! Not 
w'ilst ponds of water can be found in England, 
w'ere a man can jump and drown 'isself . . . and 
forget this 'arsh, 'igh 'andedness. 

Claudia. {Abstractedly) Yes, Runion. 

(Runion is in the act of wiping his eyes with his 
coat sleeves, hut, at Claudia's seeming indif- 
ference he stops abruptly, gazing at her in hurt 
astonishment.) 

Runion. / say that not w'ilst ponds of water can 
he — {Pausing) Beg pardon, miss, but you don't 
seem special 'appy yourself now, at the prospeck o* 
this 'ere Mrs. Partridge a-bumpin' about. 

Claudia. No, Runion, I'm not feeling very well. 
{Wiping her eyes) I wish you would go across to 
the chemist's and get me some smelling salts. 

Runion. Er — wot kind of salt, miss. 

Claudia. Smelling salts. Do go — please. 

Runion. {With mournful dignity) Miss 
Claudia .... with pleasure will I get your smell - 
in' salt . . . and especial so, as the ack will be 
... the last sad hoffice of Marcus Runion . . . 
in this un'appy 'ous'old. 'Ow many pounds do you 
wish, miss? 

Claudia. Only a bottle, Runion. It comes in a 
small, green bottle. The chemist will know. 

Runion. {On the verge of tears) Very good, 
miss. I will 'urry — Mr. Peyton, miss, is old enough 
to know the workin's of the 'uman mind. If 'e 
wants partridges, 'e can 'ave partridges, but Marcus 
Runion 'e declines to serve 'em. 



THE PRINCE CHAR 91 

(RuNioN stiffens his neck and exits majestically^ 
while Claudia turns once more to the fire. 
Peyton, with his coat on, enters hurriedly from 
rear, wiping his brow with his handkerchief.) 

Peyton. By George ! but that was close. (Start- 
ing and laughing as he sees Claudia) Oh, hullo, 
Piggy. I didn't see you. (Turns and begins taking 
off his coat) 

Claudia. (At fire-place) Daddy .... was it 
her husband who died? I — I didn't hear. 

Peyton. Yes, dear. (Laying his coat on chair) 
I took Alice over to her hotel. Day after to-mor- 
row she is going back to America and 

Claudia. (Starting happily) Oh! 

Peyton. (Turning) What is it, Claudia? 

Claudia. (In confusion) Nothing — only — • 
(Turning to table) Gracious, Dad, why didn't she 
wait for her tea? 

Peyton. U'u'm ... I reckon Alice forgot her 
tea . . . and so did I. You see . . . (Pauses as 
Runion enters at rear) 

RuNioN. (Announcing) The Earl of 'Unting- 
ton. (Exit Runion) 

(Enter Jack with a sheaf of roses.) 

Peyton. Hullo, Jack ! Come in ! Come in ! 

Claudia. (Running toward him) Why, Uncle 
Jack ! Pm so glad to see you ! 

Jack. Are you, my dear? (Handing roses) 
Then I didn't stick my hands for nothing. 

Claudia. (Taking flowers) For me? How 
lovely! You are always thinking of me, Uncle 
Jack. 

Jack. By Jove, Billy, I believe she's right. 

Peyton. Of course she's right. Claudia of ours 
isn't easy to forget. (As Claudia turns away, 



92 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

placing flowers in vase on table at left rear) Sit 
down, old fellow — make yourself at home. 

Jack. (Seating himself in chair at fire-place) 
Thank you. It's the laziest, most comfortable little 
nest in all London. 

Peyton. Mercy! Have a cigar? 

Jack. Thank you, n-e-o. 

Peyton. Um — they — they are rather good. Bet- 
ter change your mind. 

Jack. Thank you, n-e-o. 

Claudia. (Coming forward with spirit lamp, 
taking cigar from Peyton and crossing to Jack) 
Not even if I light it. Uncle Jack? 

Jack. (Chuckling) Well, of course, that's an- 
other frame — for the picture. (Lighting, then pat- 
ting Claudia's hand) Thank you, Claudia. It 
makes possible .... even one of Billy's bad 
cigars. 

Peyton. (Laughing) Well, of all the impu- 
dence! Jack Rodney, you're a ruffian. 

Jack. Billy . . . she's a wonder. 

Peyton. Of course, she's a wonder. Why — (He 
pauses as Runion enters and stands beside him, 
wearing a look of rooted gloom) 

RuNiON. {Loftily) Beg pardon, sir — a person 
to see you — a Mrs. Partridge. . . She 'ad no card 
. . . and wouldn't state 'er business. . . She's 
awaitin' in the 'all 

Peyton. Oh, yes, I know. Show her into the 
dining-room, and say I will see her at once. (As 
Runion still lingers disgustedly) 

RuNioN. Er — anythink more, sir? 

Peyton. (Looking up in astonishment) No; I 
believe that's all. (As Runion turns and exits in 
wounded dignity) You'll excuse me for a few mo- 
ments, won't you, Jack? 

Jack. (Turning from Claudia, with whom he 
is chatting in pantomime) Delighted. 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 93 

Peyton. Wha — Oh! (He laughs and goes at 
rear. Claudia follows) 

Claudia. Daddy! {As he pauses) Is she the 
— the housekeeper? 

Peyton. Yes, Piggy. 

Claudia. {Looking at the floor) Then, I hope 
you will engage her. I — I understand better now. 
(Peyton places his hand gently on her head, smiles 
and exits. Claudia stands for an instant looking 
after him) A Prince Chap grows into a King, 
doesn't he? 

Jack. {Turning his head) A what kind of a 
chap? 

Claudia. A Prince. 

Jack. Urn — yes. It has happened . . . several 
times. Why do you arsk? {He sits on the arm' of 
the chair facing Pier) 

Claudia. I didn't ask. I was only thinking. 
{She turns in a moment, half kneeling on the settee) 
Do you know, I'm rather glad we are alone. There 
is a little matter of business I wish to settle with 
you. 

Jack. {Astonished) Business with mef 

Claudia. {Sitting on settee, leaning forward 
and resting her chin on her hands) If you had 
something which / wanted very, very much, would 
— would you sell it to me ? 

Jack. N-e-o. Wouldn't think of it. Would 
make you a present, my dear, down to my last lawn 
tie. 

Claudia. {Laughing) Oh, it isn't as bad as 
that, Uncle Jack; and, really, I don't want this 
something for myself after all. It's only a bad 
habit. One of yours. I want to buy it. 

Jack. {Staring in zvonder) A bad habit . . . 
O-h! {Pause) That is rather valuable. It— it 
isn't swearing a bit now and then, is it ? 

Claudia. And is swearing a bit so essential to 
your happiness? 



94 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

Jack. Absolutely, my dear — absolutely! Some 
beastly model . . . wants to stand on her silly head. 
Some beastly critic . . . wants to stand on mine. 
No, really, Claudia — I 

Claudia. Well, it isn't swearing, Uncle Jack. 
Swearing is not a habit. It's a luxury. Wish I 
could do it myself sometimes. (Smiling) No; it's 
only a little sin. You wouldn't miss it — much. Will 
you sell? 

Jack. To you? Ha, ha! What will you give? 

Claudia. (Carelessly) A kiss. 

Jack. (Rising and facing her) Done! I'll take 
you ... in advance. 

Claudia. (Placing her heels together, her hands 
behind her hack, leaning forward and pursing her 
lips) The price is waiting, Uncle Jack. (Jack 
hesitates, then kisses her warmly and turns away 
with a look of supreme satisfaction. Claudia 
smoothes her hair and laughs) 

Jack. Do you know, my dear, I wish I were a 
very wicked old fellow — atrocious. 

Claudia. Do you? Why? 

Jack. I should begin at the beginning . . . and 
dispose of all my vices . . . one at a time ... at 
a profit. 

Claudia. Too bad! I've bought the only one. 
(Coming to him and laying her hand on his shoul- 
der) And now your part of the contract. You 
mustn't ever again . . . call Daddy — er — Billy. 

Jack. (In wonder) Not call Billy . . . Billy? 

Why? 

Claudia. (Slipping her arm through his) Well, 
you see — er — why, Uncle Jack, that's a goat's name. 

Jack. A goat ? O — h ! 

Claudia. (Stepping azvay) And, besides, it — 
it doesn't sound respectful, somehow. (Extending 
hand) But, there — I have your promise, haven't I? 

Jack. (Taking her hand) O'om . . . Yes. I 
shall call him — er — Wil-lium. (Turning to l.) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 95 

Droll idea! Devilish droll! (After reflective turn) 
Er — Claudia ... I should like to arsk a similar 
favor ... of you. 

Claudia. Would you? What is it? 

Jack. You have a bad habit, my dear. Should 
Hke uncommonly well for you to dispose of it. 
(Stands as Claudia did when about to be kissed) 

Claudia. (Laughing as she retreats) It is 
yours. It's name. 

Jack. Don't call me — er — Uncle Jack. 

Claudia. No? What then? 

Jack. Call me ... . (Seating himself slowly) 
Ja-ack. 

Claudia. (Laughing) How absurd. I couldn't 
do that — really. 

Jack. Why not? 

Claudia. Well, you were a great big grown 
man when I was a little thing, no bigger than — than 
a lump of chalk. You even used to ride me on 
your foot. (Sitting beside him and pointing to his 
feet) Don't you remember? This one was Robbin 
and that one was Dobbin. And such splendid 
horses, too! 

Jack. Y-e-s; there were three of them, I be- 
lieve. A couple of hacks and a Jack. Ha, ha! 
That's a joke. 

Claudia. But, it wasn't a joke to me, then, and 
it isn't now, for I will remember it always, even 
though it was such a long time ago. 

Jack. (Moving a little closer) And do you 
think me, then, such a very old fellow — such an 
antiquated — er — Methuseleh ? 

Claudia. (Laughing) The idea! I never 
thought of such a thing. Why, you are scarcely a 
year older than Daddy; and Daddy is— is just a 
boy. 

Tack. Thank you, Claudia. (For a moment he 
studies his boots in silence) And what would 
you think ... if one of these boys— these very 



^ THE PRINCE CHAP. 

ancient boys — were to ask you ... to be ... his 
wife? 

Claudia. (Merrily) You? I think I should 
just laugh, {Laughing as she rises) for that would 
be the funniest joke of all. Yes, Uncle Jack, I 
know I should — just laugh. (Laughs merrily as 
she crosses to arm chair at fire-place) 

Jack. (Following her and speaking earnestly) 
But, don*t laugh, Claudia — don't — I beg you. Frn 
offering you my name — my life — (As Claudia 
starts, he sinks his voice, speaking sadly) It isn't 
much of a life when all is said and done . . . but, 
without you, it's worthless — worthless as a dry and 
twisted paint tube 

Claudia. (In a troubled tone) Oh, Uncle Jack, 
I — I didn't know. (Turns to firelight) 

Jack. (Taking her hand) But, now that you 
do know, Claudia — tell me. 

Claudia. (With her head turned away) Don't 
ask me that — please — please 

Jack. But, some day — might it not — be so? 

Claudia. (Turning and giving him her other 
hand) Oh, Uncle Jack, I do love you — dearly — 
tenderly — as I have always done; but not, not as 
you would have me care. (He drops her hand and 
turns sadly azvay. Claudia follows him, placing 
her hand on his shoulder affectionately, her other 
hand on his arm) Don't be angry with me. I 
wouldn't wound you for all the treasures I possess 
or hope to own. But, can't we go on and on as 
Claudia and Uncle Jack? And won't you let me 
love you always — ^better than anyone elese — except 
—Daddy? 

Jack. (In a whispered aside) Daddy. (Turn- 
ing quietly) My dear ... I shall never speak of 
this again. (Offers his hand, which she takes in 
hers) Forget, I beg you, the maddest of an old 
fogy's follies. It came from a hungry heart . . . 
when the head was far too dull ... to teach it 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 97 

reason. (Turns away, then turns to her again) 
But, tell me something, dear ... I ask it for your 
sake, if not my own. Is it Daddy ... or Mr. Pey- 
ton . . . whom you love? 

Claudia. {Starting violently) Mr. Pey — Why 
— you 

Jack. {Gently) Yes, dear. You are a woman 
now — and 

Claudia. {Retreating, hut keeping her startled 
eyes upon him) Uncle Jack! You — you have no 
right to ask me that — you — Oh! . . . Oh! {She 
covers her face with her hands, hursts into tears 
and runs up stairs at rear, sohhing. Jack stands 
for a moment looking after her. Then his hands 
fall to his sides. He crosses to fire-place, sits in 
arm chair, and puffs once at his cigar) 

Jack. Vicious cigar, that — absolutely vicious! 
{He tosses it into fire-place, polishes monocle with 
his handkerchief , and sits drumming with his fingers 
on the arm of his chair. Peyton enters from rear) 

Peyton. Hello, Jack I All alone ? 

Jack. N-e-o. You . . . are with me. 

Peyton. {Laughing) Hadn't thought of that. 
Where's Claudia? 

Jack. Up stairs. 

Peyton. {Coming down l. c.) H'm! Ran 
away and left you, eh? What did she do that for? 

Jack. (Fiercely) In order to reach the upper 
floor, I suppose! 

Peyton. (Walking around Jack and surveying 
him with intense amusement) Uum . . . Uum! 
What's the matter with you, anyway? 

Jack. (Rising) Don't be silly, Bil — er — Wil- 
lium. 

Peyton. (His hand dropping on Jack's shoul- 
der) Now, look here, old chap, there's something 
gone amiss. You can't fool me for a minute. (As 
Jack sits dejected on settee) My ! what a hang dog 



98 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

air ! {Laughing) Upon my word, Jack, you look 
as though you had stolen something. 

Jack. Did try — er — Wil-lium. Failed. 

"Peyton. {Puzzled) Tried? Failed . . . What 
are you driving at? 

Jack. (Sadly) Tried to steal your little girl 
. . . Wouldn't have me. 

Peyton. (Bettveen surprise and gentleness) 
Oh .... Jack! (Sits beside him, placing hand 
on his shoulder) Come, old fellow; I didn't know 
you cared like — like this . . . and Fm sorry. I 
know the day must come when she will leave me . . 
and there's no one else in the whole world, Jack, 
with whom I would rather trust her. 

Jack. (Dryly) Thank you. 

Peyton. (Dreamily) And yet . . . when I 
know that she is to be left to me for a little while 
longer still — (Rising) forgive me for saying it — 
but there's something here . . . that is glad — glad. 

Jack. (More dryly) Yes .... I dare say. 

Peyton. (After short pause) But, tell me, 
Jack, why did Claudia refuse you? 

Jack. (Turning suddenly) Don't you know? 

Peyton. (Smiling) Well, no. How should I? 

Jack. (After polishing his monocle, advances 
to Peyton solemnly) Wil-lium . . . upon several 
occasions . . . you have criticized me rather se- 
verely . . . for wearing a single . . . eye-glass. 
Damn it, old fellow, get two ! ( Turning away, then 
hack again) Spectacles, Wil-lium . . . spectacles! 
(He crosses to right. Peyton looks at him in 
amazement. Jack suddenly snaps the cord of his 
monocle and hands it to Peyton) Take that, old 
man. It's better than none at all. (Peyton still 
looks perplexed, when at that moment Claudia 
appears at rear on the stair landing) 

Claudia. Uncle Ja — (She stops as she dis- 
covers Peyton, and is about to retreat when he 
crosses to her) 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 99 

Peyton. (Gently) There, dear. I know all 
about it . . . and it's all right. (Leading her for- 
ward to fire-place and turning) Sit down, Jack. 

Jack. Thank you, n-e-o. 

Peyton. Oh, do — please — there's a good fel- 
low — come. 

Jack. Thank you, n-e-o. That Musgrove chap 
— who thinks he paints — promised to bore me for 
half an hour at the Club. Never knew him to break 
his word. (Turning) Good-night, Claudia. 

Claudia. (Running to him, while Peyton goes 
near piano looking at monocle) Uncle Jack . . . 
it won't make any difference between us, will it? 

Jack. (Softly) No, dear. It won't make any 
. . . difference. (He raises her fingers to his lips, 
then turns with a brave smile to Peyton) Good- 
night, goat. 

Peyton. (Turning) Eh — what! 

Jack. (In doorway) Goat! Promised Claudia 
. . . wouldn't call you — er— Billy. That's a joke. 
Ha, ha! Good-night, goat. 

Peyton. (Crossing to door and calling after 
him) Good-night, old chap . . . Good-night. (He 
stands for an instant, advances with a sigh and 
shakes his head) Poor old Jack ! How bravely he 
bears his disappointment! (He looks at Claudia, 
who is still standing at fire-place) He told me of 
his failure — simply — honestly — (Reflectively, as he 
twirls his monocle) But, when I asked him a rather 
pointed question regarding it, do you know, he 
gave me a very curious answer. (As Claudia 
looks up quickly, fumbling with her handkerchief) 
By the way, Claudia, what was your reason? 

Claudia. (Nervously) I — I didn't care for him 
in — in the way he wished. 

Peyton. (Swinging monocle) Yes, yes, I un- 
derstand, of course. The very best reason in the 
world. And yet he's — a mighty good fellow to 
the woman who understands him — (He breaks off 



100 THE PRINCE CHAP. 

suddenly to laugh) He is rather difficult to take 
seriously at times. When I asked him the reason 
why you — er — rejected him, he — well, what do you 
think he told me? (Claudia glances at him nerv- 
ously, rolling her handkerchief between her palms) 
Said I needed spectacles — and gave me this. 
{Twirls monocle) Now, what do you reckon he 
meant? (Claudia looks at him in nervous fear, 
and begins to retreat towards door at r. Peyton 
continues, unconscious of her movements) Specta- 
cles! .... H'u'm! .... {He screws monocle to 
his eye and looks up with a boyish smile) Well! 
. . . this doesn't seem to help me much ! {He turns 
to find Claudia retreating, takes monocle from his 
eye, while he at once becomes serious) Claudia! 
{She pauses and looks at the floor in confusion) 
Ah, darling, is there something you are hiding from 
me? Something I should see — should know? 
{Tenderly) Don't, dear . . . Come — let us laugh 
away this foolish little ghost — the first to mar our 
perfect understanding. Come — kiss me — {As he 
eendeavors to place his arms about her, she slips 
away) 

Claudia. No, Daddy — no — no — no! 

(Peyton's extended arms sink to his sides, and he 
looks at her in hurt wonder. After a short 
pause he looks from her to the monocle in his 
hand, then back at her averted figure. He 
raises his hand, while a light of happiness 
overspreads his features.) 

Peyton. Oh! {He takes a step nearer, speak- 
ing in a zvhisper) Claudia! {As she makes no 
answer) Is it true, then, that my eyes are older 
than my heart . . . and yours ? 

Claudia. {Retreating as he comes toward her) 
No, no — I don't want to come between you and 
your Princess Alice — She's free — free to 



THE PRINCE CHAP. 101 

Peyton. (Catching her hands and holding them) 
And, don't you remember, dear, when you were a 
little girl how I took your hands and told you how 
I loved you better than anything else in the world, 
and that nothing, nothing should ever come between 
us? 

Claudia. (Trying to release her hands) But 
— but you would sacrifice yourself — for me — as 
you have always done — you 

Peyton. I told you, too, it was a different kind 
of love ; but I see it clearer now . . . through poor 
Jack's glass. 

Claudia. (Drawing her hands away) But, 
Daddy 

Peyton. Daddy no more ... I want you for 
my wife! .... we have built a house of love. 
. . . It is yours . . . and mine! (Spreading his 
arms) Claudia! . . . Come home! (She looks up 
at him with a happy smile. He takes a step forward 
and folds her in his arms) 

CURTAIN. 



*^^..^ 



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